coloradolab

Critical Data Ensures Child Care for Essential Workers

In the early days of the pandemic, many child care centers and other educational institutions temporarily shut down, while essential workers, particularly in the health care industry, desperately needed care for their own children. Countless early childhood educators lost their jobs in the closures, yet centers that remained open to care for the children of essential workers faced significant staff shortages. But how to fill these diverse and dispersed needs, especially during a public health crisis?

By coloradolab, ago

Fostering Opportunities: Stories of Success

As the nation celebrates the class of 2020 and the resilience of graduates during a worldwide pandemic, it can be easy to forget that some students face huge challenges to high school graduation even in “normal” times. Living in foster care can make school feel like a perpetual marathon. In Jefferson County, a program called Fostering Opportunities helps them cross the finish line.

By coloradolab, ago
many hands pushing on a log

Reducing Youth Recidivism with Multisystemic Therapy in Underserved Communities

Roughly one third of Colorado youth who spend at least a day in secure detention each year live in communities without a licensed MST provider. MST is an intensive home-based intervention for youth ages 12-17 whose behaviors put them at high risk for juvenile justice involvement and/or have problems with substance abuse. This pilot project evaluates the impact of the MST expansion on youth recidivism in eight Colorado counties.

By coloradolab, ago

Potential Health Care Cost Savings of Dual-Enrollment in Medicaid and SNAP

Colorado ranks among the lowest in the nation in terms of the percentage of the population receiving benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) with about 60% of eligible residents participating. This study examines the impact of SNAP enrollment on healthcare costs–particularly emergency room visits and hospitalizations–among Colorado residents enrolled in Medicaid. If the study identifies substantial cost savings, it will provide a fiscal reason for increasing enrollment in SNAP among those who are eligible.

By coloradolab, ago