January is National Poverty Awareness Month - In 2009, the official poverty rate was 14.3%.  That's about 43.6 million people living in poverty.  The number of people living in extreme poverty (those whose income is below half the poverty line) rose to over 17 million people - the highest level on record since data first became available in 1975.  Please check out the sites below for more information about poverty in America.

National Birth Defects Prevention Month - Birth defects affect about one in every 33 babies born in the United States each year.  They are the leading cause of infant deaths, accounting for more than 20% of all infact deaths.  Babies born with birth defects have a greater chance of illness and long term disability than babies without birth defects.  Check out this website for important information about preventing birth defects.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day - On January 16, 2011 we celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr Day.  Martin Luther King, Jr's work, words, and wisdom mean many things to many people.  On Martin Luther Kind Jr Day, learn more about the man and celebrate the life and times of this American hero, who led millions of people in the fight for racial equality.  Check out this website for family activities and resources which celebrate this important date.