Daily Skimm: Gotta get down on Friday

Skimm'd while advocating for access to mental health services for kids

October 8, 2021 Read in Browser

Skimm'd while advocating for access to mental health services for kids

Quote of the Day "7,800%" – The jump in sales of white slip-on Vans since Netflix released "Squid Game." Red light, green light.

Grief The Story COVID-19 has forever changed thousands of children's lives. Tell me.  Since the onset of the pandemic, COVID-19 has killed more than 700,000 people in the US, disproportionately impacting communities of color. They were our friends, family, coworkers, and neighbors. And in many instances, they were parents. Yesterday, a new study revealed more on the devastating impact of COVID-19 on kids. Since the start of the pandemic, more than 140,000 children in the US are estimated to have lost a parent, grandparent, or caregiver who provided things like basic needs, housing, and everyday care because of the virus. That's about one in 515 kids. The real number could be higher.  Go on.  California, Texas, and New York had the highest number of primary caregiver deaths. But the burden of dealing with losing a parent or other caregiver was highest along the US-Mexico border, states with tribal areas, and southeastern states. And things aren't the same across the board. For Native American children, one in 168 lost a parent. And it's at one in 310 for Black children – compared to one of every 753 white children. Experts warn that losing a caregiver is one of the worst things that can happen to a child, leading to an increased risk of suicide and drug abuse. It can even lead to heart problems as they try to cope with grief. What can we do? Help stop the spread. In the meantime, kids will continue to experience this type of pain. Health officials reminded everyone that children need help and support – including, and especially, for mental health. The study's authors called on policy changes that would provide grieving children with resources, economic support, and care. This latest study comes amid a bigger conversation about the importance of getting Americans vaccinated. And as Pfizer seeks emergency use approval for its vax for kids ages 5-11. theSkimm Political differences have created a divide in how the US handles the pandemic. But every decision we make impacts children – and the virus's deadly toll has left a lifelong impact on those who are just starting out in the world.

And Also...This Who's one step closer to raising the roof… Congress. Yesterday, the Senate voted to temporarily extend the US's debt ceiling. That's the max amount of cash the country can borrow to pay its bills. Reminder: 'Murica doesn't live within its means – spending more than the taxes it brings in. So, it gives IOUs to the Treasury Dept. But Treasury Sec Janet Yellen's been warning that the US's funds could dry up by Oct 18. And called on Congress to raise the debt ceiling or risk economic chaos. Think: a drop in the US's credit rating (yes, it has one), a recession, and global financial turmoil. And we thought "Candyman" was spooky. After a bunch of bickering – and to avoid the US's first ever debt default – both sides of the aisle agreed to raise the ceiling by $480 billion. It's enough cash to last the country until Dec 3. Clock's still ticking: The House is expected to approve the measure soon before sending it to President Biden for his signature. Meaning, we're not out of the woods yet.  Déjà vu: Unless Dems pass a longer term solution on their own, Congress could be right back to square one. But worse, since it'll not only have to avoid a debt default but a looming government shutdown (also on Dec 3). Deadlines, don't miss 'em.  Who deserves more attention... Missing Indigenous women and girls. After Gabby Petito's case dominated the headlines last month, many wondered where the support was for the missing women of Indigenous communities. In advance of Indigenous Peoples' Day on Monday, we looked at the discrepancies with missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls (MMIWG), how the media plays a role, and what can be done to help. Read up. What people are talking about... The Nobel Peace Prize. Today, journalists Maria Ressa and Dmitry Muratov won the prestigious award for their work to protect freedom of expression. Ressa's work focuses on President Rodrigo Duterte's violent anti-drug campaign in the Philippines. And Muratov leads one of the most independent newspapers in Russia – facing harassment, threats, and more. Now, they are being recognized for their efforts, which the committee called "a precondition for democracy." It comes after the committee awarded four other prizes this week on: Science: A pair of scientists won a prize for coming up with a greener way to make medicines. Others won for their work on modeling climate change. And others for their work on how humans sense heat. Sensing a theme... Literature: Abdulrazak Gurnah. Yesterday, the Tanzanian novelist won this year's Nobel Prize in Literature for his "uncompromising and compassionate penetration of the effects of colonialism." He's the first Black writer to win the award since Toni Morrison in 1993. Who's helping edit the script… The NAACP. Yesterday, the Hollywood Foreign Press Association announced it's teaming up with the civil rights org. The goal: ramp up DEI efforts in the entertainment industry.  While Justin Bieber paired up with Diane Keaton… Nas is also switching it up.

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Skimm Reads "The Lincoln Highway" by Amor Towles Grab your suitcase, we're heading to the 1950s. The author behind "A Gentleman in Moscow" and "Rules of Civility" set his latest novel around an 18-year-old from Nebraska newly released from prison. His intention is to head to California with his younger brother (here they comeeee) to start a new life. But his friends have other plans in mind. Instead they route him toward the greatest city in the world — New York. It spans 10 days, is told from a number of perspectives, and is a complete joyride. All aboard.

Here are today's recs to help you live a smarter life… 1. How to fill up your home without emptying your wallet. We love to see it. And so does Wayfair. Which is why they're offering up to 50% off and free two-day shipping on tooooons of decor pieces. Like chic rugs, curtains, and furniture. Don't wait.* 2. Something to help you celebrate World Mental Health Day. Which is Sunday, btw. Boundless Blooms was inspired by a mother-son duo looking to add a little more mindfulness to their daily routine. Think: books and device-free interactive products full of positive vibes. Here's 10% off.* 3. How to spice up your next dinner party. Literally. These hot sauces, created by Black woman-owned Hot N Saucy, are vegetable-based and made with all-natural ingredients. And tailored to all spice levels. Psst…we hear celebs are fans of their Garlic N Peperoncini flavor. Shop now.* 4. A prenatal vitamin you can take before, during, and after pregnancy. This brand's multivitamin has 12 OB-GYN-recommended essential nutrients. Plus, they're big on digestibility (see ya, tummy issues). And sustainability. Get an IG-worthy, reusable glass jar and $25 off your first month when you subscribe.* 5. Skincare tech that's more than just...skin-deep. This award-winning device uses fluid-physics (yes that's a thing) to infuse derm-approved, cruelty-free formulas deeper into skin. Like, 20x deeper. Try the water-based retinol serum with collagen for ultimate hydration. PS: Skimm'rs get 20% off new devices.* 6. Adorable pet Halloween costumes you'll wanna add to cart ASAP. From a red lobster to a UPS worker to an avocado, these getups will make you squeal. Now you have even more reason to trick-or-treat. *PS: This is a sponsored post.

Programming Note Skimm HQ is honoring Indigenous Peoples' Day on Monday. See you back in your inbox on Tuesday.

Skimm'rs It's Hispanic Heritage Month. So we're honoring Latinx leaders and recognizing Latinx-owned businesses & orgs for doing great things for the world and for their communities. Nominate yourself or someone you know here. Empowering lives...Rosario U-M (MA). She's an Afro-Latina leader, community activist, and social entrepreneur. And the executive director of Amplify Latinx, which aims to build economic and political power among the Latinx community. No risky business...Carolyn R (TX). She's an award-winning Latina entrepreneur. And has helped create Hello Alice, a one-stop shop for aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners that connects them with funding, services, and professional networks. (Some) Birthdays...theSkimm's Sagine Corrielus (NY), theSkimm's Jana Pollack (NY), theSkimm's Lily Yao (NY), David Chesner (NY), Mary Lewellyn (VA), Daniellah Davidson (NY), Raffi Grinberg (MA), Lucy Alagna (IL), Susan Riecher (IL), Fran Curry (MI), Sarah Busby (FL), Colton Gerhart (WA), Brittany Booth (IN), Kate Phillips (KS), Brittany Martinez (DC), Megan Zakour (TX)

In need of a weekend binge? Try Netflix's "Squid Game." Salon.com's culture editor joined this week's ep of "Skimm This" to break down the plot and why stressful TV can be so compelling. And if you're looking for other smart ways to spend your time… Listen to our news podcast "Skimm This" for clarity on the biggest stories of the week. Tune in to our podcast "9 to 5ish with theSkimm" for tips to navigate your career. Subscribe to our "Skimm Money" newsletter to keep up to date with your wallet. Sign up for our "Skimm Your Life" newsletter for curated shopping, reads, and entertainment recs. Follow us on the gram, Twitter, YouTube, and Facebook. Download our app to get it all in one place.

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Skimm'd by Rashaan Ayesh, Maria del Carmen Corpus, Mariza Smajlaj, Clem Robineau, and Julie Shain

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