Children's Defense Fund (CDF) was founded in 1973 by Marian Wright Edelman to provide a strong and effective voice for the children of America, since they cannot vote, hire lobbyists, or speak out for themselves.

The mission of the CDF is to Leave No Child Behind; and to ensure every child a Healthy Start a Head Start, a Fair Start, a Safe Start, and a Moral Start in life and successful passage to adulthood with the help of caring families and communities. We pay particular attention to the needs of poor and minority children and those with disabilities. CDF educates the nation about the needs of children and encourages preventive investment before they get sick or into trouble, drop out of school, or suffer family breakdown. Using research and data, we work to shape federal, state and local policies that best serves our children's needs in a cost-effective manner.

200 University Ave. West, Suite 210
St. Paul, MN 55103

Telephone: 651-855-1175

FAX: 651-227-2553

Email: benjamin@cdf-mn.org

Web: http://www.cdf-mn.org

Contact:

Diane Benjamin
KIDS COUNT Director