Dear Friend,

We hope you are staying healthy during this extraordinary time. ACNJ recognizes the impact of the COVID-19 on children and families, especially the most vulnerable. We want you to know that we remain committed and will continue our efforts to advocate for them and to keep our network informed. We've developed a webpage to provide you with updates to help you advocate for the families you serve. Find latest updates.

Child care should NOT be business as usual.
ACNJ and other statewide advocacy groups are urging Governor Phil Murphy to close New Jersey's child care centers, provide full funding for programs accepting child care subsidies, regardless of whether they remain open or not, and ensure children of essential personnel have access to care, in the wake of COVID-19. To flatten the curve, all families should keep children out of group care settings to the greatest extent possible.
Read full statement and recommendations.

ACNJ wants to hear from you.
We are asking child care providers and parents of young children to share their challenges during this COVID-19 crisis. Hearing about real life, day-to-day needs and challenges will help inform our advocacy and communication strategies. Read more.

Urge Congress to prioritize the needs of babies and families in the current stimulus bill.

Last week, ZERO TO THREE sent every Member of Congress 10 recommendations for action needed to safeguard the well-being of young children whose early development will be profoundly shaped by the current crisis. Emergency funding is critically needed to mitigate the impact on babies and families and the systems they will need when parents and caregivers return to work. Take action!
Email your Members of Congress immediately.

More then ever, we know the importance of an accurate Census count!
The pandemic has highlighted the importance of support programs that are funded by federal dollars. We are continuing to push to make sure all kids and their families are counted. Visit my2020census.gov to fill out the questionnaire.

Got questions?
Policy counsel Peter Chen is hosting a Facebook Live Ask Me Anything (#AMA) on our page Tuesday at 10:00 AM regarding the Census. Tune in to learn more.

Read the latest Newark Kids Count report.
Last week, ACNJ released its latest data on Newark children. The report's special section focuses on making Newark count in the 2020 Census, including census tract maps on hard-to-count populations in the city.
Read more.