In Hawaii We all are aware of successful adults who came from humble beginnings. However, growing up in poor and low income families has been identified as a major 'risk factor' for children's development. While the majority of children in these circumstances turn out well, poverty increases the chances of negative outcomes. When the high cost of living is considered, a truer picture is obtained of nearly one child in four being in poverty. Children living with a single parent are nearly ten times more likely to be poor than children living with two parents.
Children are more likely to be poor than other age groups, including the elderly.
Children of Pacific Islander ethnicity are three times as likely, native Hawaiian children twice as likely to be poor as children in other ethnic groups.