Protecting Single Mothers Addressing Vulnerabilities and Enhancing Support Systems

WHEREAS, A Medium article states that, Black single-mother households have a poverty rate of 35%, compared to 28% for Hispanic mothers and 18% for White single mothers (U.S. Census Bureau, 2022); and

WHEREAS, According to the National Women's Law Center, the poverty rate for single-mother families is 35.6%, nearly five times the rate for married-couple families; and

WHEREAS, The Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies state that 40% of Black women in college are raising children. Black single mothers comprise 30% of undergraduate students who are single mothers, and nearly 70 percent of Black single-mother students are first-generation college students; and

WHEREAS, While research consistently shows differences between children raised in single-mother and single-father households, the statistical significance can vary depending on the specific outcomes being measured. Generally, children of single mothers are more likely to experience negative outcomes in areas like academic achievement, social-emotional development, and economic well-being, according to the Brookings Institution; and

WHEREAS, Some studies have found that single father households may offer unique benefits in terms of fostering independence and strong relationships, according to Marriage.com.

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the NAACP advocates for paid family leave policies to ensure single mothers can care for their children without risking job security.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the NAACP advocates for legislation that expands the Child Tax Credit and Earned Income Tax Credit to provide financial relief to low-income single-mother households.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the NAACP demands all states provide adequate child-care funding and resources to make quality childcare accessible and affordable.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the NAACP advocates for enhanced mental health services tailored to the unique challenges associated with being a single mother.

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that the NAACP commits to raising awareness through education and resources about the challenges faced by single mothers to promote equitable policies and practices.