The effects of poverty are literally deadly. Malnutrition, hunger, and homelessness are daily threats to those who are poor. These same people must travel farther and pay more to obtain food and household goods. They are more likely to be the victims of crime as well as criminals themselves. When they commit crimes, they serve longer sentences than do those who are not poor.
Poverty is the most destabilizing social force.
It creates constant stress and anxiety over everything from adequate food and housing to family relationships. Poor neighborhoods are decaying and crime-ridden. Many of the poor can live only from day to day, unable to plan ahead. The Catholic Campaign for Human Development has long recognized that people who are poor must take the lead in creating solutions for their community's problems, and that all of us must be engaged in these efforts. Thirty years ago, the bishops of the United States firmly committed themselves and all Catholics in this country to help people living in poverty to help themselves.