Locally, the problem is no different and may in fact be more pronounced in rural areas for those without adequate transportation to get to and from work. A job alone isn't enough to pull many families up to a level of self-sufficiency. Like everyone else, poor people need good child care, adequate housing and transportation and medical benefits. Many of the jobs available to this group don't pay enough to raise their standard of living. Advocacy for the poor needs to be re-ignited.
Poverty is real, despite a booming economy.
It imperative that the problem be addressed, since we all pay for poverty's victims one way or another. As legislators consider programs to address our state's poverty, they should seek gaps in coverage for the poor and not duplicate existing services. By requiring all relevant agencies and organizations to weigh in on the pros and cons of any new programs we will all be better served with more efficient government. We all have a responsibility to take an active role in eliminating poverty.