California
Our mission centers on enhancing opportunities for youth by fostering secure neighborhoods, ensuring comprehensive health care, and promoting positive educational environments, shaping a brighter future for California's children and youth.
Stand With Children
In California, too many children and youth face poverty, hunger, lack of health care, and unsafe environments. Join us and raise your voice to demand a better future for California’s youth. Together, we can make a difference.
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Act Now
Your tax-deductible donation to Children’s Defense Fund today helps us lift young people out of poverty, protect them from abuse, provide healthcare, quality education, and nurture their moral and spiritual growth. Join us in making a meaningful impact in the lives of children and youth.
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Gifts that Give Back
Children’s Defense Fund-California is excited to partner with jewelry company Kendra Scott in an effort to raise money to support our policy advocacy and youth programs.
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CDF Freedom Schools® Spotlight
Meet our spotlight CDF Freedom Schools sites and leaders across the state
Learn MorePolicy Priorities in California
Learn more about California’s policy priorities
Our Policy PrioritiesUpdates in California
CDF Beat the Odds Program has Sunset
Since 1990, the Beat the Odds program has transformed young lives and emboldened youth on their path into adulthood. We are grateful to all who have supported this program over the years and honored to have played a part in amplifying the strength and talent of our Beat the Odds honorees. While we are retiring the CDF Beat the Odds program and brand, a new program is coming that will provide more robust support for young people and we look forward to your continued support.
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Share Your Story
Your story matters. Have you or your community been impacted by our programs or advocacy work? We want to hear from you.
Share Your StoryPrograms in California
Freedom Schools
At CDF Freedom Schools®, we’re not just educating; we’re nurturing lifelong learners and advocates for progress. By empowering the youngest generation, we’re sculpting a brighter tomorrow where we celebrate every young person’s potential, and affirming their impact on the world is profound.
CDF Freedom Schools® Program
Movement Building
Through collaborative action and community-centered initiatives, we seek to reduce child poverty, achieve education equity, improve child well-being, and more. Together, we’re shaping a world where every young person’s journey is marked by dignity, hope, and joy.
Building a Movement for YouthNews from California
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Youth Justice
CDF-CA Youth Justice Director Milinda Kakani speaks to California Senate Subcommittee about the state of California’s Juvenile Justice system
Children’s Defense Fund-California Youth Justice Director Milinda Kakani recently provided a California Senate Subcommittee with testimony on her observations of Los Angeles County’s juvenile justice system.…
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Youth Justice
WEDS: CDF-CA Youth Justice Director to Share Testimony on CA’s Juvenile Justice System as State Questions Whether Two LA County Juvenile Facilities are Unsuitable to Confine Youth
Los Angeles, CA—On Wednesday, staff from Children’s Defense Fund-California and several other California youth advocacy organizations will provide lawmakers in Sacramento with their observations on the state of California’s juvenile justice system since the passing of Senate Bill 823 and the closure of the Division of Juvenile Justice.…
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Youth Justice
Lack of Concern for Students in LA County Court System
While attending public school at Crenshaw High, I saw first-hand how content proficiency, culturally responsive education, and committed educators can transform the trajectory of low-income and marginalized communities. …
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Lack of Concern for Students in LA County Court System
While attending public school at Crenshaw High, I saw first-hand how content proficiency, culturally responsive education, and committed educators can transform the trajectory of low-income and marginalized communities.…
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Stay Connected with California
Children’s Defense Fund – California
453 South Spring Street Suite 400
Los Angeles, CA 90013
Phone: (213) 355-8787