April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month! As an agency dedicated to ensuring that all children and families thrive, Ascentria wants to take this moment to lift up the importance of communities working together to support and strengthen families. When families are supported with resources like free school lunch, access to healthcare, and affordable childcare, we can keep families out of crisis and prevent child abuse before it happens. To learn more about Child Abuse Prevention Month, please consider learning more via the Child Welfare Information Gateway: https://www.childwelfare.gov/preventionmonth/about-national-child-abuse-prevention-month/ #CAPMonth2025 (fb)

Take Action to Support New Hampshire’s Refugee and Asylee Families! New Hampshire House Bill 452, concerning driver’s licenses for individuals granted asylum, is currently under review by the NH Senate Transportation Committee. Last year, the New Hampshire community actively participated in discussions about similar legislation, and over 160 individuals shared their views, which contributed to the bill's defeat. However, HB 452 has been reintroduced and recently passed the NH House of Representatives with a vote of 198-162. If enacted, HB 452 would restrict the ability of individuals with asylum status to obtain a driver's license until they become lawful permanent residents—a process that usually takes more than two years. In a state like New Hampshire, where public transportation options are scarce, driving is often essential for accessing employment, healthcare, education, and everyday necessities. Asylees have already been granted protection by an immigration judge, making them legally authorized to work, eligible for a Social Security number, and pay taxes. The hearing is scheduled for April 8 at 2:00 pm under the Transportation Committee. Directly register your position with the state today: https://gc.nh.gov/remotecommittee/senate.aspx (fb)