Pocono News Section

Fighting for Kids

Fighting for Kids - Friday, February 27, 2009 at 10:30PM EST

Wilkes-Barre, Luzerne County -
State lawmakers and police chiefs from around the area gathered at the Luzerne County Courthouse Friday to push for support for early childhood intervention programs. They are urging state lawmakers and the governor to increase spending for programs that help put kids on the right road, things like Head Start.

Luzerne County D. A. Jackie Musto Carroll says the record is clear on the issue. She says, "We think it’s a great program. It brings to the forefront an issue which affects children. It is well known there is a correlation between the crime rate and high school dropouts. The more kids that stay in school the lower the crime rate will be. We can do better with our children."

Hazleton police chief Bob Ferdinand says law enforcement has to take a new approach. He says, "I think it’s absolutely vital to get to kids at a developmental stage. They need to have a different view of the world as to what they're given than the cards they are dealt with. This is their only chance for a future. Simply arresting people and increasing police on the street is not working."

State representative Phyllis Mundy says it comes to money again. She says, " Maintaining these programs that have been built up over the last several years is crucial. We are already beginning to see the results of our investment that we have made."

Lawmakers know they have a tough fight in light of the budget crisis in Harrisburg and the nation’s sluggish economy.