This article is written about the situation in Texas, but I know there are single moms in the same situation all over. I’m one who makes to much for health care assistance but can’t quit work to get it, even though I have several serious problems that need regular attention.
Elizabeth Gregory has organized a symposium for Texas in November to address family issues like this one.
One third of all U.S. families do not have a parent at home with the kids. That statistic doesn’t surprise me. I see these kids every day. But here’s what shocked me: In Texas it costs more per year to put your child in daycare than it does to send them away to college for a year. The article states that in Houston one year of childcare for a four year old is $4427 and the tuition for a full time student at the University of Houston for fall and spring semesters is $3324. What’s wrong with this picture?
It’s no wonder some moms just give up and stay on public assistance. I’m not saying it’s right to throw in the towel, but I’m saying I understand. There aren’t a whole lot of family friendly jobs out there, and there aren’t a whole lot of jobs you can make a decent income to raise your kids. It’s a two income world, and single parent families suffer.
I wonder where my state falls in these statistics. I’ll have to research that and let you know. In the meantime, if you are from Texas, go to www.friendsofwomen.org and see what this conference is all about.