Summary Of The Chapter On Poverty

Prior to taking this course and reading the chapter on poverty I felt poverty is when someone does not have the basic financial resources to enjoy a minimum standard way of life. The individual would not have the basic means such as food, shelter and clothing. After reading this chapter I realize that having those basic needs handed down is not sufficient. Someone who is transitioning through a difficult time needs hope, training, education and support. They need help in developing their capacity so they may have a decent pay and a place to live. It is hard when others judge you without knowing your struggles or are unable to relate. Not everyone starts living in extreme poverty, but circumstances can lead someone there. My assumption is that

an annual income of $23,000 is associated with being poor. It is difficult to live in a nice area, consume healthy food and pay utilities with a low income and without financial aid.
I found disturbing that the government is willing to bail out large companies, but is not willing to invest the same amount of money in improving people’s needs. Although I am aware that the government provides financial help to large corporations I had never made a connection to the disservice of helping the poor.
I work in the human services field and I can assure you that there are many who want to work but lack the skills or supports. Some of them their health changed, making them unable to do their prior line of work. Some have difficulty finding work because they suffered a trauma or unable to get help or treatment. Peoples needs are expanding as times and demands are changing. We cannot assume because they have a large flat screen TV or a nice car that they don’t have a need. People do have ups and downs but some more than others. We need to create programs and supports that will motivate and educate the individual into fields that will provide long term not just minimum wage.