WASHINGTON, DC -- It is time that America’s children become America’s priority.  For far too long the well being of our nation’s children has been relegated to an afterthought.  A lack of concentration and intervention on behalf of our children has left them physically, emotionally and educationally vulnerable.

That was the message from Congressman Chaka Fattah (D-PA) as he testified today before the Ways and Means Subcommittee on Income Security and Family Support, as he advocated for a White House Conference on Children and Youth to take place in 2010.

The latest statistics from the Child Welfare League of America show that more than 12 million children live in poverty. Nationwide an estimated 872,088 children have been abused or neglected, approximately 1 in 5 has a diagnosable mental disorder, and another 1 in 10 has a severe emotional or behavioral  disorder causing significant impaired functioning at home, at school, or in the community. 

In testimony today, Congressman Fattah said, “Our government must refocus its attention on the fundamental needs of children and reconsider its policies to ensure their future is secure.” The hearing was called to give support to America’s Child Welfare System and to bring attention to the millions of neglected and vulnerable children. 

Congressman Fattah summarized for members of the subcommittee, his new legislation H.R. 5461, The White House Conference on Children and Youth in 2010 Act.  The legislation would authorize a conference to be held in 2010 to focus on child welfare issues. Fattah said he is certain that comprehensive national policy improvements on behalf of children will be the result of the much needed conference.

“I commend the work of this committee and the legislation currently under consideration for recognizing that every child deserves a family, and that we all benefit when the system works,” said Congressman Fattah. “As lawmakers it is our responsibility to ensure that children are given the tools they need to enjoy a successful life.”

On the eve of his testimony, Congressman Fattah was presented with the Lifetime Leader for Children Award from the Child Welfare League of America for his work on behalf of the nation’s children.