Congresswoman Kathy Castor was recognized today as a “Champion for Children” by First Focus, a bipartisan advocacy organization dedicated to children’s issues.

“Children and families do not have high-priced lobbyists to compete with the special interests in Washington, so it is vital that we speak out and work on their behalf,” Castor said. “I am humbled to be recognized for my advocacy.”

Castor has been a tireless advocate for children’s issues since she came to Congress in 2007. She co-chairs the Congressional Children’s Health Care Caucus, which has worked on a number of children’s health issues including access to care, obesity, chronic conditions, food allergies, asthma, oral health and health insurance reform.

In February 2009, Castor joined President Obama at the White House when he signed the expansion of the State Children’s Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) into law. Several of the measures Castor developed were included in the legislation, such as bonus payments to states that cut bureaucracy to more quickly and efficiently enroll and retain children. She encouraged “fast track” enrollment options, such as creating a presumptive eligibility system for children participating in other public assistance programs.

Castor also worked to get $536,000 for a University of South Florida initiative to combat obesity in early childhood for the School of Public Health. This money is allowing USF to continue its focus on one of the biggest health problems facing our youth. Castor also is an advocate for our region’s children’s hospitals: St. Joseph’s and All Children’s.

Through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, Castor championed money for Head Start. The Tampa Bay area is receiving more than $13 million for Head Start initiatives through the Recovery Act. For older students, Castor advocated for Florida to receive a Race to the Top award. Florida won $700 million through this competitive initiative.

First Focus honored only members of Congress who introduced, co-sponsored and took leading roles on children’s issues.