**GAO-09-18SP**                      Published: Nov 13, 2008. Publicly Released: Nov 13, 2008.                  

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## Highlights

Investments in the education and health of children are critical to the nation's future, as the nation's security and well-being depend on a productive citizenry. While families play the essential role in nurturing their children, the federal government has traditionally provided aid to disadvantaged children and families. However, federal spending on current health care and retirement programs--Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security--is projected to grow dramatically and absorb an increasing share of the federal budget and economic output. Absent meaningful changes, little room will be left in the federal budget to address other priorities, including programs designed to assist and ensure opportunities for disadvantaged children and families. GAO convened this forum on June 25, 2008, to identify key areas of concern related to disadvantaged children and their families and to discuss ideas to address these concerns within this fiscal environment.

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## Topics

Worker and Family Assistance

Access to health careAdolescent healthAid for educationBlock grantsBudget functionsChild care programsChild health servicesChildrenCost analysisDay care centersDisadvantaged personsEconomic growthEducationEducational grantsFamiliesFederal aid to statesFederal grantsFederal social security programsstate relationsFuture budget projectionsGrantsHealth care cost controlHealth care costsHealth care programsHealth insuranceHousingLow income housingMedicaidPopulation growthSupplemental security incomeTax credit