As a parent of four teenagers growing up in Snohomish County, I am deeply concerned about the public safety issues we are currently facing and the impact it has on our children. In addition, I believe that many of these issues can be traced back to early childhood environmental and mental health factors.

Our children are growing up in a world that is increasingly stressful. They are exposed to violence, and addiction on a daily basis. They are being handed the baton of a post covid social structure that is full of uncertainty. These experiences are having a profound impact on their mental health and well-being.

When our children are not healthy, they are more likely to engage in risky behaviors, such as substance abuse, crime, and violence. These behaviors can lead to incarceration, homelessness, or worse.

We need to do more to support our children and help them to develop healthy minds and bodies. We need to provide them with access to quality education, healthcare, and mental health services.

We need to create a safe and supportive environment for them to grow up in.

I will be calling on all of our elected officials to take action to address the public safety issues we are facing. We need to invest in our children and give them the tools they need to succeed. By doing so, we can create a safer and more prosperous future for our community.

• Audit funding for early childhood education and development programs.

• Correctly allocate current funding and repair access to mental health services for children and families.

• Create more opportunities for youth to get involved in positive activities, such as sports, arts, and music.

• Work to reduce poverty and inequality in our community by providing affordable and adequate living.