The state by state, kid count, shows some improvement in New Mexico in several areas. But, those areas where Dona Ana County is falling short are a source of frustration for those working daily for the kid's sake. In Dona Ana County, more kids than ever are behind bars for substance abuse. Nearly 20 percent are here for narcotic offenses. Nearly 30 percent are doing time for property offenses.
Statistics point to the state's high poverty rate as why.
The Kids Count survey also shows more reported cases of child abuse and neglect in Dona Ana County in 1999. Although, substantiated cases are slightly down from the year before. Mervine works for New Mexico Advocates for Children and Families in Dona Ana County. She says her efforts and others in programs across the county offer a helping hand to parents and children. But, she says, getting to those services is another story.