Sun Sep 08 00:06:00 UTC 2024: ## Robeson County Launches Child Advocacy Network Hub to Tackle Poverty

**LUMBERTON, NC** – Robeson County has taken a significant step towards addressing child poverty with the launch of the Robeson County Child Advocacy Network (CAN) Hub. The hub, a collaborative effort between NC Child and Communities in Schools of Robeson County, was officially launched last week at Robeson Community College (RCC).

The event brought together local leaders, advocates, and community members to discuss the pressing issue of child poverty in the county. Data reveals that a staggering 56% to 67% of children in Robeson County live in poverty or low-income households, a stark increase post-COVID.

Danny Stedman, Executive Director of Communities in Schools of Robeson County, emphasized the impact of poverty on children’s education and overall well-being. “We know this has a major impact on a child’s success in school and in life,” Stedman said. “Many of them struggle with attendance, behavior, coursework, social and mental health, and the list goes on.”

Erica Palmer Smith, Executive Director of NC Child, echoed the need for collaborative action, stating, “We cannot do this alone, no organization can do this alone.” She highlighted NC Child’s commitment to advocating for policies that improve the lives of all North Carolina children, including expanding Medicaid, making early childhood education more accessible, addressing youth mental health, and strengthening the welfare system.

Robeson Community College, a key partner in the CAN Hub initiative, recognizes the multifaceted nature of the problem. President Melissa Singler emphasized the importance of addressing food insecurity, not just for students at RCC, but also for their children at home. “It’s not just about what happens in the classroom, but it’s also about what happens in the home,” she said.

The launch event culminated in a ceremonial signing officially establishing the Robeson County CAN Hub. Both Stedman and Smith expressed enthusiasm for working together to create lasting positive change for children and families in the county.

The Robeson County CAN Hub represents a crucial step towards building a brighter future for children facing poverty in the region. The partnership between NC Child, Communities in Schools of Robeson County, and Robeson Community College highlights the collaborative spirit needed to address this complex issue and create a community that is truly worthy of all its children.

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