January 8, 2023

Poverty Awareness Month is observed in January every year. Poverty Awareness Month is about taking an opportunity to learn more about this social topic, raise awareness among our peers, and understand how we can help.

Poverty has several causes, including a lack of access to basic essentials such as water, food, shelter, education, and healthcare. Poverty is also caused by inequities such as gender or ethnic discrimination, bad governance, conflict, exploitation, and domestic violence.

Today, poverty is a global problem that exists at some level in every country. Did you know that the U.S. ranks second highest in poverty rates among its peer countries? As of July 2022, the Census reported that 68,053 Vermonters live in poverty. Out of all of the counties in Vermont, Caledonia county is ranked the second highest for individuals living in poverty. 

Throughout the month of January, we will be sharing various facts and quotes relating to poverty, as well as resources available at local, state and national level.