Our Mission
CHILDREN AT RISK serves as a catalyst for change to improve the quality of life for children through strategic research, public policy analysis, education, collaboration, and advocacy.
What We Do
Data & Research
We use research and data to understand the needs of Texas children and their families. This research drives our advocacy agenda and helps us develop evidence-based policy recommendations.
Policy Advocacy
Research and data alone are not enough to drive change for children. We use our research to develop bipartisan policy recommendations that have the most impact and speak up to inform policymakers.
Collaboration
We work better together. We rely on partners across the state to support our research and data collection, provide regional insights, and amplify our advocacy efforts through collective action.
Upcoming Events & Activities
Oct 8-Nov 20
Fall Early Childhood Texas Tour
Join us to weigh in on a grassroots strategy that improves child care across our state, and builds a more sustainable system that supports young children, their families, and child care providers.
Feb 3-8
Learning Tour: Havana, Cuba
Join us as we explore Havana’s rich culture while learning how local child and family issues connect to C@R’s work.
March 27
Stand Up for Children
Join us or an unforgettable evening of comedy, auctions, and impact that raises vital funds to support C@R’s work ensuring children have access to education, healthcare, nutrition, and a life free from exploitation.
Our Areas of Expertise
CHILDREN AT RISK focuses on 3 key areas that can help break the cycle of poverty and enable children to learn, thrive, and meet their full potential.
Education
Health
Safety & Opportunity
We are committed to viewing all the work we do with an Equity & Justice lens and an Immigrant Children lens.
Equity & Justice
Immigrant Children
The Latest from C@R
Frequently Asked Questions: ELQN
Why should I be a part of this early childhood program? What are the benefits for my child(ren)? ELQN is a program that was created to make sure that all children 0-8 years old in Harris County have access to high-quality childcare and educational resources at their...
CHILDREN AT RISK Public Statement: Children and Families Need Certainty, Not Chaos
Media Contacts: Morgan Gerri, 832.600.9354 Rashena Franklin, 713.301.4577 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 1, 2025 CHILDREN AT RISK is deeply concerned that today’s government shutdown is putting children and families at risk. Essential programs that millions rely...
Seeds of Change: Recap of the 2025 Early Childhood Education Summit
This virtual gathering brought together legislators, policy experts, state leaders, advocates, and community stakeholders to reflect on recent wins for Texas children and chart the course for the work ahead. On August 14th, CHILDREN AT RISK gathered leaders,...
Get Involved
Are you a Champion for Children?
For the 7.3 million children in Texas, you can be by giving a monthly recurring donation to Children at Risk.