This General Accounting Office study, commissioned by Daniel Patrick Moynihan, reflects concerns about rising caseloads and long-term dependence on welfare programs, such as Aid to Families with Dependent Children (AFDC). Attention has been focused the United State's welfare system, particularly on the rising number of teenage mothers. The forces that place a young teen girl at serious risk of long-term welfare receipt begin very early. Recent reports have noted positive association between growing up in an adverse environment, such as an abusive family or an impoverished neighborhood, and future cognitive, behavioral, and physical functioning. However, the current mix of education, health, and social support programs has been unable to mitigate the effects of multiple family problems and deteriorating neighborhoods on the children being raised in these environments, particularly young teen girls. Consulted community service providers found services for at-risk girls aged 10-15 were limited, and services available were often provided after problems reached the crisis stage. To better serve area residents, some neighborhoods are organizing coalitions which, in come cases, have had a positive effect on neighborhood children. New service delivery strategies are discussed. (JBJ)