Adult and Youth Justice by the Numbers
45%
of youth in juvenile correctional facilities have behavioral health needs.
151,549
Kansas adults have suspended licenses because of unpaid court fees or fines.
7.3x
Black youth in Kansas are 3 times more likely to be arrested and 7.3 times more likely to be in secure confinement.
6%
Black Kansans comprise 6% of the state’s population, but account for 24% of all arrests in the state. The disparity in arrests has increased since 2013.
Resources
SOUL Family Legal Permanency Program
In partnership with the Annie E. Casey Foundation, this program was designed by and for young people in foster care to reflect their vision of family and supportive adult networks.
Strengthen Families Rebuild Hope
Kansas Appleseed is a part of the Strengthen Families Rebuild Hope (SFRH) coalition, an independent coalition formed in 2018 advocating for a better foster care system for Kansas kids. The coalition has convened town halls, produced reports on the status of Kansas’s foster care system, and advocated for statewide reforms. SFRH is comprised of youth who have experienced foster care, foster parents, social workers, and other allies.
In the News
Our work has been recognized and featured in various news outlets, highlighting the impact of our efforts statewide. Read the latest updates below.
Committing or even being charged with a crime is not a prerequisite to be placed on this list, said Teresa Woody, litigation director for Kansas Appleseed. However, the legal and personal consequences — which include intensive surveillance, traffic stops, and increased bail — are often felt lifelong, she said. Read more here.
A constitutional challenge to the Wichita Police Department’s gang list will result in at least two-thirds of the people on the list being removed immediately. Read more here.
Join Us in Our Fight to Improve the Kansas Justice System
In its current form, the Kansas foster care system isn’t good for children, families, or Kansas.
As Kansans, we must work together to build a state that cares for and supports all of its children.
Contact us about advocacy opportunities. We’ll provide the information, strategies, and motivation to create a supportive system that safely brings these beautiful children home.
