Vulnerable populations face heightened risk.

• Author: Fickler, Wade
• Position: HOUSING AND HUMAN SERVICES - Covid-19 crisis

The COVID-19 crisis is affecting households at all socioeconomic levels; however, the economic pain is being experienced most acutely by the same populations that were disadvantaged going into the crisis. Race, ethnicity, occupation, social status and the presence of a disability have been historic drivers of economic disparity in the United States, and COVID-19 has laid them bare again.

The shortage of safe, stable and affordable housing in the United States was severe before the coronavirus pandemic, and with millions of workers losing their incomes, many more adults and families are now unable to make rent and mortgage payments. COVID-19 is giving rise to concerns about a potential new wave of homelessness, and to calls for strategies to mitigate the health and safety risks faced by those already experiencing homelessness.

Child welfare and early care and education systems have experienced significant disruptions, putting tremendous strain on children, youth and families, as well as the caseworkers, caregivers, home visitors and early intervention specialists who support the healthy development and well-being of the next generation.

COVID-19 has put the vulnerable populations of children and youth in child welfare systems at heightened risk and...