The Child Opportunity Index, developed by diversitydatakids.org at Brandeis University, measures the neighborhood conditions and resources that help children grow and thrive.
According to the Child Opportunity Index 2.0, the Augusta, Georgia–South Carolina metropolitan area is among the ten large metropolitan areas in the nation with the highest percentage of children living in very low-opportunity neighborhoods. Thirty-six percent of children in our metropolitan area live in neighborhoods with some of the nation’s most limited conditions and resources for healthy childhood development.
Where a child lives can significantly influence their health, education, development, expectations for the future, and outcomes in adulthood.
In the neighborhood we serve, more than 75% of students qualify for free or reduced-price lunch. Our community is also a food desert: families face real obstacles simply reaching a full grocery store, which makes a reliable daily meal one of the most practical things a sponsor provides.
The Living in Purpose Center serves as a vital neighborhood resource designed to help close this opportunity gap. We give children access to many of the resources the Child Opportunity Index identifies as essential to healthy development — including nutritious food, academic support, enrichment opportunities, trusted adult relationships, leadership development, and a safe environment.