Effects of Two Healthy Marriage Programs for Low-Income Couples: Evidence from the Parents and Children Together Evaluation

Research shows that parents and children tend to fare better on a range of outcomes when they live in low-conflict, two-parent families. Recognizing the potential benefits of healthy relationships for low-income families, Congress has funded several rounds of grants for Healthy Marriage (HM) programs since 2006. These grants aim to promote the well-being and long-term success of children and families by fostering parents’ relationship stability and economic well-being. This Office of Planning, Research and Evaluation brief presents the impacts of HM programs about one year after study enrollment on: 

• the status and quality of the couples’ relationships;
• the co-parenting relationships; and
• job and career advancement.