Strengthening families has always been a key priority for the social work profession.  As contemporary American families are an amalgam of many different lifestyles and structures, NASW advocates a full range of services to children and families from primary prevention to rehabilitation across the
life cycle.  Supporting families and ensuring safe andhealthy development for children requires recognition that rising poverty, fewer living wage jobs, inaccessible health care, and inadequate housing are all stressors that can impede
their success.