POVERTY

Poverty 14% of the population live in poverty Poverty Line (threshold): the official measure of poverty; calculated to

include those incomes that are less than three times a low cost food budget. Yearly the government computes a low cost food budget and multiplies it by 3. Less

than amount are considered poor. The government does not look at cost of child care and is the same across the

nation. Single person 2009: $10,830 2011: $10,890 2012: $11,170

Living Wage: poverty line for a family of four 2009: $22,050 2011: $22,350 2012: $23,058 Add – 3,820 for each additional child

http://www.aljazeera.com/programmes/insidestoryus2012/2012/10/201210343152481862.html

Supplemental Measure

The Census Bureau, in cooperation with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, developed a new measure that will allow for an improved understanding of the economic well-being of American families and how federal policies affect those living in poverty.

The SPM estimates the cost of food, clothing, shelter and utilities, then adds a further 20% for other expenses.

It adjusted for the cost of living in different regions and for whether a family owns or rents its home.

To assess a household's ability to pay for basic expenses, the SPM counts cash income as well as food stamps, tax credits and other government support, minus tax payments, work expenses and out-of-pocket medical costs.

The new indicator will provide a better understanding of America's poor, by measuring both the needs of families and the effect of government help.

Could you survive poverty?

True or False: Keep track of your answers!1. I know which churches and sections of town have the best

rummage sales.2. I know which rummage sales have “bag sales” and when.3. I know which grocery stores’ garbage bins can be accessed

for thrown-away food.4. I know how to physically fight and defend myself physically.5. I know how to keep my clothes from being stolen at the

Laundromat.6. I know what problems to look for in a used car.7. I know how to live without a checking account.8. I know how to live without electricity and aphone.

Could you survive in poverty 9. I know how to use a knife as scissors.

10. I can entertain a group of friends with my personality and my stories.

11. I know what to do when I don’t have money to pay the bills.

12. I know how to move in a half day.

13. I know how to get and use food stamps or an electronic card for benefits.

14. I know where the free medical clinics are.

15. I am very good at trading and bartering.

16. I can get by without a car.