Changing the system to better serve our children takes time—and there are children across Texas who can’t wait. Our programs work to change the odds for children right now.
Since 1999, CDF-Texas has worked closely with local, state, and national child advocates to level the playing field for Texas children and youth. Our current programs build upon CDF’s 45+ year history of inspiring and empowering advocates, organizations, and children themselves to create the kind of transformative change they and their communities urgently need.
Learn more about our programs and how you can get involved.
Beat the Odds®
Our Beat the Odds® program honors outstanding high school students who have excelled in their schools and communities despite facing difficult circumstances and systemic barriers in their lives. We provide our scholars with not just financial support, but also mentorship, a support system, and community resources.
CDF Freedom Schools®
The CDF Freedom Schools® program empowers children to excel and believe in their ability to make a difference in themselves, their families, communities, country and world with hope, education and action. We’re proud to partner with Texas schools to deliver this summer and after-school enrichment program to children across the state.
Community Health Outreach
Our health outreach and enrollment teams connect children to programs like CHIP, Children’s Medicaid, and more so they can benefit from comprehensive health care as early in their lives as possible. They work on the ground with families, communities, and local partners in the Rio Grande Valley and East Texas.
YOUthTX
Our youth-centered advocacy program empowers young Texans ages 14–25 to share their stories and the stories of their communities to shape policy in our state. We provide free workshops, trainings and advocacy opportunities to amplify their voices to Texas’ decision makers.