Southern Illinois

Illinois continues to rank above most states in child well-being, but education and health outcomes remain a concern, according to the new Kids Count Data Book. The report highlights declining reading and math proficiency and school enrollment, and rising child and teen death rates.

Despite an overall decline in homelessness in Illinois, the number of infants and toddlers who are unhoused is rising, with experts noting the figures likely undercount families living in “hidden homelessness” situations. Their advocates say rural barriers, stigma, and limited shelter access compound the issue. They stress that expanded early childhood education and comprehensive wraparound services are critical to addressing both housing instability and its lasting impacts on young children.

Unusual winter weather and heavy rainfall have caused major flooding in Missouri and southern Illinois, leading to swollen rivers, voluntary evacuations…