Poverty in America: The Hidden Truth

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 Kennesha Richards/ConsciousLifeNews

This article discusses the rising trend of poverty in the United States. It gives statistical facts and other information.

Confucius once said, “In a country well governed, poverty is something to be ashamed…” Poverty remains a leading factor worldwide, mainly in South Asia and Africa. However, the rising trend of poverty in the United States remains current. Researchers discover data that puts a strain on the “American Dream.”

As poverty rates continue to increase, New York Times writer Peter Edelman says, “The lowest percentage …was 11.1 percent in 1973. The rate climbed as high as 15.2 percent in 1983. In 2000…it went back down to 11.3 percent, and yet 15 million more people are poor today.” With a struggling economy and barely exiting a recession, these numbers are nerve-wrecking. Based on surveys provided by the United Nations Children’s Fund, “The United States ranks 34 of the 35 countries when it came to child poverty.” As a powerhouse nation, U.S is really below standards compared to other developed nations.

NBC news writer Erin McClam says, “…The figure known as the “poverty line” is almost certainly here to stay.” As America tries to eliminate the issue of poverty, the “line” seems to increase yearly. Government assistance programs such as TANF, grants and affordable housing programs are received by millions of Americans. Jobs have been lost. Hunger becomes a problem. Shelters are occupied on a daily basis and many or even homeless.

In a report from the United States Department of Agriculture, data shows for the 2013 Fiscal Year, approximately 47,671,224 individuals and 23,023,860 households participated in the SNAP or Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. SNAP provides nutrition assistance and economic support to millions of low income individuals and families. In 2011, 44,708,726 individuals and 21,072,113 households participated and in 2012, 46,609,072 individuals and 22,329,713 households participated in the program.

Aside from support programs, what is the possibility of government aid contributing to poverty rates? Fox News writer Doug McKelway, references Mitt Romney’s campaign comment about the “47 percent of Americans who are dependent upon government.” However, research may have shown the relationship between government assistance and poverty.

Ohio University economist Richard Vedder supports Romney’s claims and says, “…an expanding system of government benefits has helped create a poverty rate of 14 percent. They’re actually creating a dependency on government, which is unhealthy both for the individuals involved and their children, and also for the broader society…”
Vender uses the Department of Labor statistics to support his claims stating, “3 million Americans received Social Security Disability payments in 1990 compared to 8.6 million today. About 3.9 million college students received Pell grants in 2000 versus 9.7 million students today. Vender’s states, “extended unemployment benefits were 26 weeks but has risen to 52 weeks or more.”

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