The annual "Kids Count" report that came out Thursday says the number of children living in poverty in Peoria County increased by 34% from 1999 to 2012. Social service agencies say Governor Bruce Rauner’s proposed state budget will exacerbate the problem with cuts to programs that help those most in need.
Jeff Turnbull is the Vice President and COO of Peoria Friendship House.
“None of us should be accepting only eating five days a week and being hungry through the weekend. None of us should be accepting of a parent having to choose between buying medicine for a sick child or buying food for an entire family.
Turnbull says state budget cuts will likely mean a reduction in services for many of the area’s low income families like after school programs and food pantries. Social service groups hope the Kids Count report will help make the case for lawmakers to increase social safety nets and other economic boosts for the poor.