Poverty in America Awareness Month

In spite of the seemingly limitless prosperity that many Americans enjoy, millions of others are going hungry, foregoing medical care, doing without winter coats and gloves, struggling to break free from poverty.

With nearly 36 million residents, Poverty, USA, is the largest state in America. Today, 12.9 million children -- 1 in 6 -- live in poverty. Yet a recent Gallup poll found that only 5% of Americans believe poverty and homelessness are important problems for the country.

To bring attention to this forgotten state, the Catholic Campaign for Human Development (CCHD) has designated January as Poverty in America Awareness Month.

During this special month of observance, CCHD will devote its efforts to heightening the nation's understanding of the breadth and depth of the problems of poverty by:

• Releasing a new public opinion survey and powerful public education campaign designed to raise awareness of the state of poverty in America.
• Encouraging the editorial media to focus on poverty. educating the public to be sensitive to the needs of those in poverty and to treat poor people with respect.
• Holding activities in Catholic schools and public settings to make sure poverty is top-of-mind for all Americans.

You can help promote Poverty Awareness Month by:

• Get the facts about this forgotten state
• Read the latest news on poverty from CCHD
• Learn how others have overcome poverty
• Take a tour of this forgotten state
• Get involved in your community
• Email a friend about povertyusa.org