The Making Connections Initiative is the centerpiece of the Annie E. Casey Foundation’s (AECF) multifaceted effort to improve the life chances of vulnerable children by strengthening their families and neighborhoods. The program is currently in a three-year demonstration phase, during which AECF is working with neighborhoods in
22 cities to promote programs, activities, and policies that contribute to strong families. Providence has been chosen by the Annie E. Casey Foundation as one of 22 cities around the country to participate...
Tough neighborhoods historically have had ample strengths, assets and potential, but through a gradual pattern of declining investments, segregation, and fraying social institutions, they become isolated from the economic and social mainstream. The word “tough” connotes a challenge, but also reflects the strengths and assets of families who live in these neighborhoods. They show remarkable resilience in the face of overwhelming odds.
Families who live in isolated neighborhoods often lack access to the skills and opportunities that lead to secure, family-supporting jobs. Many cannot afford homes or cars, lack access to credit, and pay too much for goods and services. These families lack connections to social networks of friends, relatives, neighbors, faith communities and civic groups. Their voices are not heard when decisions that impact their lives are made. In tough neighborhoods, schools, day care facilities, and public safety systems are overburdened and insufficient. And far too many families don’t have adequate health insurance to address their family’s physical and mental health needs.