Tackling family poverty is a complex process that requires a division of labour between individuals, governments and charitable organisations to work together over the coming decades in order to reduce the number of families living in poverty.
According to the most recent estimates, in 2015, 10 percent of the world’s population or 734 million people lived on less than $1.90 a day.
https://www.un.org/en/global-issues/ending-poverty
What leads to family poverty?
Poor families usually face a variety of complex issues that can contribute to their situation.
Common factors include limited access to resources and job opportunities, the lack of education and training, and a lack of social networks and support.
In some cases, socio-economic inequality, poverty traps, and discrimination can be additional factors that prevent families from escaping poverty.
In addition, a lack of financial literacy, unstable housing, poor nutrition, and health problems can all contribute to a family’s inability to escape poverty.
Also read: Poor family help trust: What is it?
As a member of a poor family, how can I improve this situation?
Improving your family’s financial situation can be challenging, but there are steps you can take to move in the right direction. Here are some suggestions:
- Create a budget: Take the time to create a budget and track your income and expenses. This can help you identify areas where you can cut back on spending and save money.
- Increase your income: Consider taking on a part-time job or finding ways to earn extra income such as freelancing or selling items you no longer need.
- Reduce expenses: Look for ways to reduce your expenses such as shopping for groceries on sale, cutting back on entertainment expenses, or finding ways to save on utilities.
- Seek education and training: Consider pursuing further education or training to improve your job prospects and increase your earning potential.
- Seek government assistance: Research government assistance programs such as food stamps, housing assistance, and healthcare programs that can help you meet your basic needs.
- Seek help from non-profit organizations: Research non-profit organizations in your area that provide financial assistance, job training, or other support services to low-income families.
- Create a savings plan: Set aside a portion of your income each month into a savings account, even if it’s a small amount. Over time, this can help you build up a savings cushion that can be used in emergencies.
Remember that improving your family’s financial situation takes time and effort. But with persistence, dedication, and a plan, you can take steps to move towards a better financial future.
How does the government address family poverty?
Governments address family poverty through various policies and programs. Here are some examples:
- Social safety net programs: Governments provide social safety net programs such as food assistance, housing assistance, and cash transfers to help low-income families meet their basic needs.
- Healthcare programs: Governments may provide healthcare programs to low-income families to ensure they have access to affordable medical care.
- Education programs: Governments may provide education programs such as Head Start or free and reduced-price school meals to help low-income families access educational opportunities.
- Job training programs: Governments may provide job training programs to help low-income individuals develop skills and improve their job prospects.
- Tax credits: Governments may offer tax credits such as the Earned Income Tax Credit to low-income families to help them keep more of their income.
- Minimum wage laws: Governments may set a minimum wage to ensure that workers receive a fair wage and can support themselves and their families.
- Affordable housing programs: Governments may provide affordable housing programs to help low-income families access safe and affordable housing.
Overall, governments use a variety of policies and programs to address family poverty. These programs aim to help low-income families meet their basic needs, access educational and job opportunities, and improve their financial situation over time.