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Actualities: State of the State: "Unprecedented" Focus on Ohio's Kids

Columbus, OH - Children's advocates say Governor Strickland's State of the State address is great news for Ohio kids.

Comments: Mary Wachtel, Voices for Ohio's Children; Lori McClung, Center for Community Solutions; Margaret Hulbert, United Way of Greater Cincinnati; Crystal Allen, Public Children Services Association of Ohio.

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Ohio's child advocates say there's a lot to like about Governor Strickland's first State of the State address, with what some are calling an unprecedented focus on children. Mary Wachtel with Voices for Ohio's Children says the Governor's call for health coverage for all kids would make Ohio a national leader.

AUDIO: (CLICK to listen or RIGHT-CLICK to download the audio.)

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While the state faces a tough budget situation, children's advocates say they've seen bipartisan support in the legislature when it comes to investing in kids.

AUDIO: (CLICK to listen or RIGHT-CLICK to download the audio.)

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Governor Strickland said the state should make thousands more families eligible for the "Help Me Grow" program, in which nurses and social workers visit low-income or at-risk families with very young children. Margaret Hulbert with the United Way of Greater Cincinnati says that gets kids off to a good start.

AUDIO: (CLICK to listen or RIGHT-CLICK to download the audio.)

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Crystal Allen with Public Children Services Association of Ohio says kids in the foster care system will get help - by being able to keep public health care after turning 18.

AUDIO: (CLICK to listen or RIGHT-CLICK to download the audio.)