D ear Fellow Pennsylvanian: One of the most troubling issues facing us today is father-absent families. I know how powerful the positive influence of a father can be. My dad was my greatest mentor. I learned from a man of honor, a loving father and a supportive and caring husband. All of Pennsylvania's children deserve to have the nurturing touch of both a mother and a father. But, too many do not.

Nearly 40 percent of children under the age of 18 in America live apart from their biological fathers. In too many of our homes, fathers are absent and the effects on their children are devastating. Fatherless children are five times more likely to live in poverty, compared to children who live with both parents. Children who do not live with their father are three times more likely to fail at school or to drop out.

We must find a way to stop this tragedy. We must help fathers re-establish loving relationships with their children. My Administration is committed to strengthening our families. But no matter what government efforts are undertaken, no government program will ever substitute for good parenting. Simply put: Government can't love, or teach or nurture. Government can't tuck a child into bed at night or motivate a child to do his or her best. Government can't develop within our children the confidence and sense of self-worth that are so important for their future. Only a loving mother and father can do that.

We developed this brochure to help moms and dads in Pennsylvania become better parents. Responsible parenting involves much more than providing financial support. It means loving and nurturing and spending time with your children. When mothers and fathers take responsibility for themselves and their children, we will build a Commonwealth of opportunity and prosperity for all of our residents.

Sincerely,
TOM RIDGE
Governor

My response to Governor Ridge
You too can be heard by responding to Governor Ridge's message.

For questions and information, please contact:
Derrick Span, Director of the Project for Community Building
Phone: 717 787-7401
313 Forum Building
Harrisburg, PA 17120
Email: derrick_span@dced.state.pa.us
Fax: 717-234-4560

. E-MAIL______ MOTHER'S RIGHTS ARE ASSUMED, FATHERS HAVE TO FIGHT FOR THEM