R.I. Kids Count releases 2025 Factbook, focuses on federal programs under threat

WARWICK, R.I. (WLNE) — Rhode Island Kids Count, a nonprofit organization aimed at helping students in the state have the best learning experience possible, released their 2025 Factbook in a ceremony at the Crowne Plaza at 8 a.m. on Monday.

The meeting, attended by Gov. Dan McKee and members of Rhode Island’s congressional delegation, largely focused on federal programs that President Donald Trump’s administration has threatened to cut or cut funding to, in order to call attention to how it would affect Rhode Island students.

Currently, according to the factbook, 44,951 children in the state rely on SNAP benefits, and more than half of the state’s students- 75,933- participated in the National School Lunch Program, according to data from last December.

Kids Count also focused on the Head Start program, which is a federally funded early childhood education program primarily for low-income families that the Trump administration has already proposed eliminating funding for; 1,438 Rhode Island children are currently enrolled in Head Start, with 493 children on a waiting list.

The factbook’s executive summary said that any changes in these programs would have a negative effect on students, stating that stability was a necessity for children to thrive.

Additionally, the factbook defended diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs, which have been under attack by the Trump administration, saying that they were important for building community, eliminating disparities among students and fostering growth among students.