Raegen Selden
I am a mother and grandmother living in Pennsylvania. I married my middle school sweetheart and together we have six children, two currently serving in the US Armed Forces. I joined the PAB because I believe you can’t complain about something, if you won’t do anything to make it better. Parenting is the hardest and most rewarding job you will ever have and I thank all six of my children for keeping me “employed.”
1. What is something you’re really proud of as a parent?
I am proud of so many things as a parent, it’s going to be hard to narrow it down (toot toot!). Honestly, what I’m most proud of is giving my children the ability to soar and become the best versions of themselves! I crawled so they could fly! They believe in education, they love the Lord and they are committed to being upstanding citizens and I believe that the foundation I laid for them contributes largely to that.
2. What do you want lawmakers to know about what it’s like raising children and making ends meet in today’s economy?
Raising children in this economy is not one size fit all. The needs of children are on such a broad spectrum, from their dietary needs, to their health requirements, to their clothing needs, and their special needs. As a mother of 6, I raised my children with help from my village, employment, and at times a wing and a prayer because of this economy. It’s hard, it’s exhausting, and at times very honestly discouraging because you have to juggle so many balls that you shouldn’t have to. Having to decide between paying your light bill or getting your child new sneakers is ludicrous!
3. Why is the Child Tax Credit (CTC) important to you?
The CTC is so important because, when families like mine have more resources, children benefit through improved health, educational stability, and reduced stress at home. Worrying about “more month than money” does not make for a happy or healthy environment. Having the CTC took some weight off my shoulders and allowed me to show up for my children whole and happy, which in the long run gave them the environment they needed to flourish.
4. Why is it important to you that lawmakers expand the Child Tax Credit?
The CTC is great! But if we’re being honest, in this economy, if it’s not expanded, it won’t mean much in a year or two. Realistically, everyone, including Social Security recipients receive a cost of living (COL) increase, because this country recognizes that it’s necessary. Employers give COL raises because they recognize it as well. Raising children is a full-time job and should be given the same consideration. EVERY PARENT IS A WORKING PARENT!
5. If you had $500 more for each of your children every month, how would you use it?
If I received $500 more, I would be able to pay for my sons’ extracurricular activities and still put food on the table. I would be able to give them the opportunity to go to overnight camp while continuing to pay the mortgage without fear of falling behind. Giving them a childhood that all children deserve.
6. In addition to increasing the benefit level, are there other changes to the CTC that you think are important to ensure children and families can thrive?
In addition to increasing the benefit amount, I believe that ALL children should be “eligible children” regardless of their immigrant status. I also would like to see the CTC become fully refundable to everyone. Most importantly, the CTC should not replace other forms of assistance. It should never be a choice but a requirement. No one should have to choose between the CTC and SNAP benefits.