Research is clear that poverty is the single greatest threat to children’s well-being. -National Center for Children in Poverty

It is difficult to quantify the impact grinding poverty has on a child’s cognitive, physical and emotional development, but it is pervasive and it is devastating. From poor nutrition to patchwork, substandard childcare to distressed and demoralized parents who often don’t have the time, energy or confidence to parent proactively or the money to feed, clothe and shelter these children in a way that will keep ravaging anxiety at bay, these already challenged children almost always grow into challenged adults.

A wonderful writer who calls herself Mean Rachel introduces us to one such child in Texas. Please meet Zekarius:

Heartbeats

[Read more...]