Children’s Advocates for Change’s 2025 Data Book on the Well-Being of Illinois Children is now online: https://bit.ly/CAFCDatabook.

The book contains data on the demographics of Illinois children as well as metrics for Illinois children regarding health and wellness, education, poverty, child safety, and juvenile justice. Just some of the data book highlights:

• In 2023, 47% of Illinois renters spent 30% or more of their income on rent.

• The infant mortality rate for Illinois Black infants is close to three times the rate of that for Illinois white infants.

• More than one-quarter of Illinois public school students were chronically absent in 2024.

• Based on data from the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services, the number of children receiving state comprehensive health benefits equates to 49.8% of Illinois children.

The data book has a section on the recently approved federal tax and spending bill and the impact (with regards to both revenue and services) it could have on Illinois.

The book also contains a trio of state policy recommendations and a look at some revenue options.

The book serves as a reference guide for advocates, elected officials, and others as Illinois debates how to deal with the existing needs of Illinois children and families and the shifting federal landscape.

We also want to hear from you on the data and recommendations contained in the book. Please email us your thoughts at [email protected].

© Children’s Advocates for Change 2025. All rights reserved.