From pandemic to racial inequity, report paints ‘grim’ outlook for California’s kids

COVID, WILDFIRES, ECONOMIC uncertainty and persistent racial injustices have upended nearly every aspect of children’s lives in California, according to one of the first comprehensive surveys of young people’s overall well-being since the pandemic began.

The 2022 Children Now Report Card, released Jan. 12 by the Oakland-based research and advocacy organization, offers a glimpse into the struggles — and victories — children have experienced as the pandemic approaches the end of its second year. Education, child care, physical and mental health, homelessness, poverty, juvenile justice and food security are among the topics explored in the report, which issues A-through-F letter grades based on data and state policies.