Separating Poverty From Neglect in Child Welfare
February 2023
Child Welfare Information Gateway
This issue brief explores what the research shows about the overlap among families experiencing poverty and those reported to the child welfare system for neglect, the societal context within which both poverty and neglect exist, and strategies that have proven effective for preventing and addressing both poverty and neglect, together. It is important to note that none of these strategies are intended to be “quick fixes” implemented in isolation. The issues underlying poverty and neglect require long-term advocacy, assistance, and collaborative community support to resolve.