Today, the First Focus Campaign for Children (FFCC) honored Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet as a 2013 Defender of Children for his work to improve the health, educational outcomes, and well-being of children. First Focus Campaign for Children is a national bipartisan children's advocacy group that recognizes members of Congress who work to promote children's issues, both in policy and budgetary decisions.

“We have a responsibility to help build a better future for our kids and grandkids,” Bennet said. “It's an honor to receive this award from an organization that has done so much to improve the lives of children nationwide.”

As a former school superintendent, Bennet has been a strong advocate for children's issues throughout his career. During his time in the Senate, he has worked to increase childhood cancer research and expand research, education, and intervention activities related to preterm birth. His “breakthrough therapies” provision in last year’s FDA Reform bill, which helps expedite the approval process for certain lifesaving treatments, is helping improve the lives of kids with Cystic Fibrosis on a daily basis.

FFCC priorities for the 113th Congress include reducing poverty, improving education, addressing child housing needs, and preventing abuse and neglect.