Healthy Marriage Initiative

The Healthy Marriage Initiative was included in the Deficit Reduction Omnibus Reconciliation Bill of 2005 (S. 1932) as a proviso that sets aside $100 million annually "to help families stay together." 

President George W. Bush said, regarding the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Administration for Children & Families "Healthy Marriage Mission":


 * "To encourage marriage and promote the well-being of children, I have proposed a healthy marriage initiative to help couples develop the skills and knowledge to form and sustain healthy marriages. Research has shown that, on average, children raised in households headed by married parents fare better than children who grow up in other family structures. Through education and counseling programs, faith-based, community, and government organizations promote healthy marriages and a better quality of life for children. By supporting responsible child-rearing and strong families, my Administration is seeking to ensure that every child can grow up in a safe and loving home."

Websites

 * Marriage Movement.org website.

Profiles

 * "Healthy Marriage Mission," U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children & Families. Last Updated: January 6, 2006.
 * Robert Rector, "Reducing Domestic Violence: How the Healthy Marriage Initiative Can Help," Heritage Foundation, undated 2005.

Articles & Commentary

 * News Release: Marriage Protection Week, 2003, By the President of the United States of America, A Proclamation, October 3, 2003.
 * Michael McManus, "Save marriages and taxes," Washington Times, December 6, 2005.
 * Cheryl Wetzstein, "Senators champion healthy marriages," Washington Times, December 11, 2005.
 * Kim Trobee, "Presidentâ??s Marriage Proposal Gets Help from Pro-Family Groups. Initiative moves welfare funds into marriage strengthening programs," Focus on the Family, December 13, 2005.
 * David Wilkinson and Chris Stevenson, OpEd: "In Support of Marriage," Washington Times, December 16, 2006.
 * Concerned Women for America, News Release: "Healthy Marriage Initiative Passes. Congressional Action is a Victory for American Families," Christian Wire Service, December 21, 2005.
 * Mel Seesholtz, "Bush and the Christian Right: $100 million for discrimination," Online Journal, January 6, 2006.