Poverty doesn’t have to be the last word for kids in rural America
- Kids in rural America deserve a quality education. But the system is failing America's heartland.
- One out of every 18 kids in rural America will drop out of high school.
- Save the Children supports 300 rural communities across 14 states and advocates for policies that protect and benefit children.
A stat representing the number of children in rural America who live in poverty.
1 in 5 children in rural America—nearly 3 million—live in poverty
A stat representing third graders in rural communities read around 1/3 of a grade level below students in nonrural communities.
Third graders in rural communities read around 1/3 of a grade level below students in nonrural communities
A stat representing that over 1 in 20 households don’t have access to a private vehicle in rural America — where resources are distant, homes are scattered and public transportation is lacking.
Over 1 in 20 households don’t have access to a private vehicle in rural America — where vital resources are distant
Our Work to Fight Child Poverty in Rural America
Poverty doesn’t have to be the last word for kids in rural America. Save the Children knows that by investing in early education, we can give children and their families the tools they need to overcome poverty—setting them and generations to come up for a brighter future.
Save the Children has been part of rural America for over 90 years. We partner with hundreds of rural communities across the U.S., helping parents, caregivers, and local leaders to equip the next generation—not simply to get by, but to thrive.
Your donation supports our work so that, together, we can make sure every child in rural America has what they need to flourish, including:
An icon of a mother and child holding hands.
Helping parents become their children's first and best teachers
Boosting elementary reading and math skills
Head Version 2 SVG for web use
Closing the rural teacher gap
Getting children back to the classroom after a disaster strikes
Bringing Learning to Bella’s Doorstep in Rural South Carolina
In rural South Carolina, 2-year-old Bella and her mom, Telya, face the challenges many families know too well — scarce childcare options, long waitlists, and high costs. “It’s hard to find someone you trust with your most prized possession,” says Telya.
But hope arrives on wheels — Save the Children’s Mobile Classroom. Outfitted with books, play kitchens, letterboards, and healthy snacks, this unassuming van delivers more than early education tools; it brings opportunity, connection, and joy.
At the heart of the program is Bieonka, an Early Steps Coordinator who meets families like Bella’s right at their doorstep. She engages young children in developmental play and supports parents in nurturing their child’s growth.
“She’s given me something to look forward to with Bella — watching her grow into a bright toddler,” says Telya.
With many rural kids entering school already behind, programs like this are essential. They ensure children like Bella hear more words, gain critical skills, and feel seen and supported.
“My biggest dream is for her to live her dreams,” says Telya. Thanks to Save the Children, that dream feels a little closer.
Donate to Help Children Across Rural America
Help more children like Bella grow, learn and thrive by supporting early education programs right here in the U.S. Your donation to Save the Children brings books, resources and life-changing support directly to families acros rural America who need it most.