Danny Davis: “Let me commend the chairwoman and the Congressional Black Caucus for hosting this discussion this evening on what I…”

“Let me commend the chairwoman and the Congressional Black Caucus for hosting this discussion this evening on what I consider to be one of the most important issues in our country and in our society, and that is taking a hard look at what is happening with our children, especially those who are in need of care. I will focus on the adage that I have always believed in, that an ounce of prevention is worth much more than a pound of cure. It just reminds me of some of the many things that we have championed in trying to make sure that not only do our children receive the care and attention that they need once they are in care but also trying to prevent them from having to have that experience. I was thinking of 2023 when Illinois and the Nation benefited from the reauthorization of the MIECHV program, which I was fortunate to lead. The MIECHV program funds evidence-based education and services proven to improve mother and child health, family safety, and child development. I helped create this program in 2010, and it has brought over $119 million to Illinois and $5.2 billion to the country to help make families stronger and try to help them to be able to retain their children. I am also reminded that Illinois and the Nation benefited from the Family First Prevention Services Act, which I helped enact.…”