Family Poverty in America
Statistics on rates of poverty in an area can tell us a great deal about the context in which people live. U.S. Census Bureau data provides detailed poverty statistics by race, gender, age, disability status and other social characteristics. The official poverty rate in the U.S. in 2016 for all families was 11.0%, but for families headed by females, the poverty rate is 30.0%! Georgia has a family poverty rate of 13.6%; families headed by women the rate is 34%, higher than the national rate!
What are the consequences for children who reside in families with high rates of poverty? What are the consequences for Georgia?
How much poverty exists in your city or county?
To review family poverty rates in your locality, go to the U. S. Census American Factfinder website below.
- Type in the city or county and state of your residency;
- Select "Poverty" from the list on the left hand side of the page.
- Click on the second listing "Poverty in the last 12 months of families" under 2016 American Community Survey.
- A table showing the poverty rates for your selected locality should appear.
1. U.S. Census Bureau. (2016). American Factfinder: 2016 American Community Survey - Poverty.
The rate of family poverty in your residential area by race, marital status, and other social characteristics you find particularly interesting.
Suggest two strategies for enhancing current antipoverty efforts for families in your community, and explain the rationale behind your suggestions. Using your text readings, web sources and other important resources, present at least two references to support your position. Use APA to format in-text citations and references.
Zip code - 30238
Reading Resource: DiNitto, D, and Johnson, D. (2016). Social Welfare: Politics and Public Policy. Chapter 4: Ending Poverty: Is it an issue anymore? Chapter 7: Helping needy families: An end to welfare as we know it.