Lifting up
family voices.

Nearly a quarter of California's young children live in poverty. If not for public assistance programs, that number would be far higher.

Families' experiences matter.

Children’s earliest experiences shape the rest of their lives. For many California families, ensuring their children have what they need to thrive—good nutrition, healthcare, early learning experiences, and other supports—means accessing the public service system’s resources and programs.

This project aims to lift up the voices of families who utilize public services and provide an understanding of their struggles and successes in navigating a complex system. Each family’s experience is unique, yet many share similar challenges, frustrations, and hopes. They also plant seeds for reimagining these systems to best meet the needs of the families who rely on them.

Meet the families.

Families share their stories and perspectives on public services.

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Mary
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Jasmine
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Cassie
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Martha & Francisco
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Graciela
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Danielle
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Lupita

System perspectives.

Findings from family focus groups and interviews.

The Latino Mexican-American mother with son, a little boy, in his house in Pennsylvania, USA
Impressions
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Dreams
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Eligibility
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Using Services
Family Impressions of Public Services
Ideas for Change