MaryLee Allen, who for more than 40 years was a leader in advocacy for children’s welfare, health and safety with the Children’s Defense Fund, passed away on June 13, 2019. Allen joined CDF in 1974, the year after it was founded, where she worked on CDF’s first-ever policy report, Children Out of School in America. More recently, she worked to ensure the passage and effective implementation of the Family First Prevention Services Act child welfare law.

“MaryLee was a child advocacy hero. In addition to her work for children, she was a modest leader who encouraged, supported and mentored countless others in the field. I was honored to serve with her on the Generations United Board and to know her passion and determination in service,” said Dr. Lynette M. Fraga, Executive Director of Child Care Aware of America.

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