The dramatic increase in poverty during the first half of the 1980s hit women and children the hardest. Regarding this fact, the following are discussed: (1) economic changes since 1960; (2) the extent of the problem; (3) reasons for the economic vulnerability of women and children; (4) curtailment of social services; and (5) probable future…

This Children's Defense Fund report summarizes findings of a national survey, which indicate detrimental effects of Federal budget cuts in health care funds on economically disadvantaged mothers and children. Suggests that health funds for mothers and children are more important than defense expenditures and tax cuts for the non-needy. (MJL)