TODAY: Millions receive first expanded monthly Child Tax Credit payment

Millions of families will receive their first monthly federal Child Tax Credit (CTC) payment today, thanks to the temporary expansion included in the American Rescue Plan. Experts predict the expanded CTC will reduce child poverty by nearly half—with even greater benefits for Black, Latinx, and Indigenous children who were disproportionately likely to be denied the full value of the credit under prior law because their families earned too little. The monthly payments include $300 per month for children ages 0-5 and $250 per month for children ages 6-17. The payments will make a huge difference in helping parents with the costs of caregiving and in promoting positive childhood development. 

Here are a few of the resources about the CTC’s impact that we developed or contributed to: 

• The Child Tax Credit will help families breathe a little easier.
• 10 Things to Know about the Expanded Child Tax Credit
• Opinion: Child tax credits will work — if the intended recipients can access them
• Ten Key Provisions in the American Families Plan for People with Low Incomes
• What We Can Learn from a Universal Basic Income for the Expanded Child Tax Credit

Olivia Golden to Step Down in 2022 After Almost a Decade

Olivia Golden, who has led our organization as executive director since 2013, will step down in early 2022. As CLASP Board Chair LaVeeda Battle said: “Olivia’s multifaceted visionary leadership has transformed CLASP into a powerhouse policy leader...She remade CLASP to reflect the demographics of those served and championed racial equity and immigrant rights, all while deepening the bench of young leaders in policy and advocacy.”