It is quite prevalent that the economic crisis has taken over the world badly. All the states and countries, either rich or poor, are suffering from this mess. One of the biggest countries in the world, like the USA, is among them, where the prevalence of poverty is a huge concern. When it comes to the states, people there, usually think of urban or rural areas, where the poverty rate is notable.
However, this theory does not fit anymore. According to some researches, the ratio of poor people has increased significantly in the suburban areas. Approximately 3 million people are starving in the suburbs as compared to the people living in the cities. Such conditions have become challenging for the residents of that area and also for the policymakers. For this, various governmental and human service organizations have to look into this matter to identify the root causes.
Factors driving the Poverty
As we discussed earlier, the geographical location of poverty has shifted to suburban areas. Several factors are considerably contributing to poverty like low-wage jobs, aging, or job loss due to recessions and racism.
Increased Population and Housing Cost
The diverse and increased population in the suburbs areas is one of the main reasons. Most of the immigrants have moved there, doubling the population. While the housing costs in urban areas are rising due to the reinvestments, that is forcing the people to look for an affordable place to live in like suburban areas, where the houses are not expensive that much. But again it is increasing the number of people in these areas.
Economic Recessions
However, the downturn in the economy has hit harder the people of the suburbs than the urban. Increasing suburban poverty due to which a numerous amount of people living in that area are unemployed and barely able to meet their needs. However, the households where the people are not unemployed, but their income is less than the threshold, come under the definition of poverty.
Low Stipend
Low-wages work, one cannot ignore this factor as it is also intensifying poverty. Most of such low-income jobs belong to these areas like sales, cleaning, food services, and so on. Around 60%of the residents of this area, perform the before-mentioned jobs and are somehow trying to earn their bread and butter.
Ways to reduce poverty
Several programs led by the government and non-profit organizations are there to eliminate poverty from the world. But that is not enough; unemployment is the first and foremost issue that we need to resolve. Additionally, policymakers should set the wages of people in a manner that should be enough to support their families and satisfy their needs.
Increase Employment Rate
No doubt, a good and handsome salary can resolve so many financial issues. But if the opportunity of a job is not there, then how will a person earn his bread. Therefore, we need to increase the job options for low-class communities.
Though the government is doing a tremendous job, they need to provide more job opportunities. By investing in general sectors like schools, health, and childcare, this will not only benefit the public but will also provide jobs for the jobless. Also, investing in the fixation of old bridges and buildings will open many doors of employment for poor people.
Increase the Pay of Workers
Various studies have shown that the wages of several workers are not even up to their living standards. Such minimum salaries do not meet their essential living needs. Hence, now is the time to work on it. We should focus on taking the minimum wages to meet the standard requirements of life. If the authorities and unions start hauling pressure, then they can resolve this problem and reduce poverty.
Strength Existing Programs
Yes, you have heard right, such kinds of programs are especially useful and beneficial for poor people. The income of the poor can increase by the earned income tax credit program, while food stamps and cash assistance can also control the hunger of the kids of the poor community.
Organize a Group or Community to aid the Needy
It is an excellent way by which a common man can fight poverty. Instead of working all alone, make an organization or welfare that will strengthen and empower them. Find and build opportunities for them to bring a positive change in their world.
Stop Mass Imprisonment
A lot of people from different races, in the states, are not allowed to work because of their minor criminal records. That has taken away the chances of earning from people, and they are suffering because of it. It is evident that at many places, owners do not hire such people. Therefore, one should concentrate on this matter and end this incarceration.
Handle Segregation and Racism
There is no doubt that racism is increasing widely, particularly affecting the specific people and their community. Because of this, they are unable to get even the essential resources, and nobody wants to give them any job. So, it is the right time to stop the separation and racism in society to overcome poverty-related issues.
Conclusion
It is an understatement to say that nothing in this world is impossible. If you are willing and determined, then you can achieve any milestone. The economic mess has affected every country severely. Therefore, it is crucial to take serious steps that can reduce poverty. By increasing the employment rates and wages of the workers, we can restrain this issue, whereas the poverty control programs are also very serviceable in this mission.
James Crook is a business and financial author living in the US. James has been writing from years
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