Virginia is creating a poverty reduction task force to identify challenges and opportunities to help lift children and families out of poverty.

Gov. Tim Kaine announced the creation of the task force on Thursday. It includes both public and private-sector partners who will make policy recommendations to fight poverty in Virginia.

The task force will be co-chaired by Secretary of Health and Human Resources Marilyn Tavenner and Richmond attorney Robert Grey. It will receive financial support through a grant program administered by the National Governors Association.

Kaine said helping Virginians out of poverty won't be easy or quick, but remains imperative.

The governor's office says that according to current data, nearly 10 percent of all Virginians live below the federal poverty line.