A study done by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development shows the United States has a high rate of single-parenthood. According to the study the U-S has the highest rate with single parents raising 25% of children. Though the economy is causing much financial strain on single-care-givers and families, Community Outreach Director for the Department of Children and Families, Becky Obrien, says Alachua county has many programs to help residents cope.
She says, “In Alachua County there is a lot going on, whether you’re a single parent or not. Libraries have programs that promote literacy and help parents learn how to read to their children, and promote reading with their children. There are parent support groups that go on, and there are many people who are very interested in providing resources.”
Obrien adds children raised by one parent can have the same quality of life as those raised by two.