January is Poverty Awareness Month and it gives us an opportunity to become more aware of those in need and the ways we can take action to combat poverty.
There are over 40 million people living in poverty in the United States. Research shows that approximately 1 in 3 individuals with disabilities are living in poverty. 16.2% of all children (11.9 million) live in poverty. 13.6% of Seniors are living in poverty.
Poverty creates inter-generational issues, causes health issues due to food insecurity, stress, and lack of access to care, and contributes to children under-performing or missing school.
Pope Francis says,
“In service of the poor, there is no room for competition. Rather, we should humbly recognize that the Spirit is the source of our actions that reveal God’s closeness and his answer to our prayers."
This month, let us pray for those that experience poverty, and for us that we may know how we can be of service to those in need.
To learn how you can lend a helping hand to those experiencing poverty:
- Visit our website to learn about our programs and services – www.CatholicCharitiesSWKS.org
- Visit PovertyUSA.org for a nationwide perspective.
- Follow us on Facebook and/or Twitter for daily ways to get involved and be informed.
Please join us this month as we pray for those in need, and for ourselves that we may know how to assist them.
