Poverty in America Awareness Month

History of Poverty in America Awareness Month

What is poverty? For African and Asian nations, poverty is inaccessibility to healthcare, necessary vaccines, food, water, and shelter. While education is considered important in developed nations, struggling countries choose food over being able to read. This is why the definition of poverty differs from continent to continent. In the United States, those who cannot afford a recreational trip, or pay for medication are also considered to be living below the poverty line. Due to the differing inflation and employment statistics of each country, several international organizations have outlined their definitions of poverty.

For instance, according to the United Nations, “poverty is the inability of having choices and opportunities, a violation of human dignity.” This means that people who do not have enough means to feed or clothe their family or send their children to school are considered to be living in poverty. The World Bank, on the other hand, describes poverty as a condition where the education and healthcare levels are low, and there is no access to clean water and sanitation.

According to the World Bank, lack of physical security and the unavailability of options for one to improve their life and standard of living is also included in poverty. Whereas the European Union (E.U.) defines poverty as being closely linked to the distribution of income. Whichever definition one chooses to go with, poverty causes numerous problems in a country, such as a high crime rate. Poverty is seen as a social illness that gives rise to inequality, hatred, and discrimination. The negative long-term consequences of poverty are the motivational factors for world leaders to strive to reduce the level of poverty across the globe.

Poverty in America Awareness Month timeline

1964

Drums Of War

President Lyndon Johnson declares an unconditional war on poverty to relieve, cure, and prevent it.

1974

The Educators

An interagency Poverty Studies Take Force is established to review the current measure of poverty and undertake alternative measures for eradication.

1978

Nitty Gritties

The Office of Management and Budget specifies the definition of poverty.

1992

Expert Analysis

The National Academy of Sciences forms a panel to study and measure poverty.

Poverty in America Awareness Month FAQs

When is Poverty in America Awareness Month?

In 2027, Poverty in America Awareness Month is observed from Saturday, January 1 through Monday, January 31. It serves as a crucial time to reflect on societal inequalities and mobilize efforts for change.

How many Americans live in poverty?

The number of Americans experiencing poverty fluctuates, with recent data from the U.S. Census Bureau indicating millions are affected. The official poverty rate provides a critical benchmark for understanding economic vulnerability.

What is the federal poverty line in the U.S.?

The federal poverty line is an income threshold used to define poverty in the U.S., updated annually to reflect economic changes. It serves as a crucial measure for eligibility for various federal assistance programs.

What is the difference between absolute and relative poverty?

While absolute poverty signifies a life-threatening deprivation of essentials, relative poverty indicates living below the average standard of living within a specific society. Both forms of poverty present distinct challenges and require different approaches to intervention and support.

How to Observe Poverty in America Awareness Month

Donate

Want to lend a hand to those suffering from poverty? Make a gracious donation to children, adults, or anyone in need. You can donate food, clothes, blankets, money, or anything that a person living in poverty may need.

Spread awareness

Several Americans are not aware of the large number of individuals who are suffering from poverty and can’t even afford the basic necessities. Spread knowledge regarding the poverty rate in the country so people start helping those in need. You can share the knowledge with friends and family, on social media, or even host a live event to raise awareness on poverty.

Host a charity event

To arrange a huge donation for those living in poverty, host a small charity event and encourage others to donate. Share the details of the event on your social media pages and you can also create pamphlets to spread around your community.

5 Facts About Poverty In America

People living in poverty

In 2020, over 37 million people lived in poverty.

Poverty in Chicago

In 2007, an estimated 21% of the population in Chicago was living in poverty.

People of color

Societies made up of non-whites face a higher rate of hunger, poverty, and unemployment compared to white areas.

Savings

Nearly 70% of adults have less than $1,000 in their savings accounts.

National Center on Family Homelessness

In a 2015 analysis, it was found that approximately 2.5 million children experience homelessness in a year.

Why Poverty in America Awareness Month is Important

Increases empathy

The month is important because it brings to light the number of people who are suffering, in effect creating empathy in the hearts of those who were previously unaware. Once individuals become aware of the effects of poverty, they are more likely to engage in donations and improvement plans to help eradicate poverty.

Encourages donations

Giving the exact figures of poverty and highlighting the number of children who are deprived of food and shelter, encourages people to donate. Whether it is money, food, or clothes, people need to be encouraged to give whatever little they can.

Calls for action

The month calls for action in terms of donations, and the introduction of measures and public policies that may eliminate poverty in the country. If we work together as a nation, we can achieve a poverty-free society.