Why does the richest country have poverty? Poverty in America Why does the richest country have poverty?

What is Poverty? Why does Poverty Exist?

What is “officially” Poor? Poverty Line: Single $9,359 (per year) Married $12,047 Family of 4 $18,556

Education Level No High School Diploma High School Diploma 22% chance of poverty High School Diploma 9.6% chance of poverty Some College 6.6% chance of poverty College 3.3% chance of poverty

Education & Earnings College graduates earn: 3 times income of high school dropouts 2 times income of high school graduates Unemployment rate almost double (for high school dropout)

Poverty Summary Education Level is the best predictor of average income Lower levels of education promote lower income & dependence on Government

Critical Thinking Poverty A stepping stone? A cycle? or

Class Discussion

Class Reading Poverty in the wealthiest country on earth?

How the GOV’T computes poverty level: Money income    Includes earnings, unemployment compensation,    workers’ compensation, Social Security, Supplemental    Security Income, public assistance, veterans’ payments,    survivor benefits, pension or retirement income, interest,    dividends, rents, royalties, income from estates, trusts,    educational assistance, alimony, child support, assistance    from outside the household, and other miscellaneous    sources.    Noncash benefits (such as food stamps and housing    subsidies) do not count. Before taxes-Excludes capital gains or losses. Family--If a person lives with a family, add up the income    of all family members.

Free Write Discuss the top 3 factors YOU feel contribute to poverty in the USA. What is the responsibility of the government in fighting poverty? (explain!)