Childhood poverty rising in RI cities

WARWICK, R.I. (AP) - A new report says childhood poverty in Rhode Island is becoming increasingly concentrated in four cities as lingering economic problems take a toll on families.

The latest Rhode Island Kids Count report released Monday says more than 25% of children in Providence, Woonsocket, Central Falls and Pawtucket are living in poverty.

The new study shows that 44% of poor children in the four cities are living in extreme poverty with family incomes of $9,000 a year or less.

Kids Count released its 18th annual report on the state's children Monday morning.

The number of children receiving food stamps in the state increased 81% from 2005 to 2010, but less than two-thirds of children living in extreme poverty receive cash assistance.

Click here to read the entire Kids Count report.