The month of January is known for many things—a transition into the new year, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Lunar New Year, and obscure things like, “Appreciate a Dragon Day.”

But it’s also known as “Poverty Awareness Month,” which occurs through January. It’s a month-long recognition of bringing awareness to the growth of poverty in America and around the world. During this month, individuals can fight for change and help people who are facing injustice due to the poverty problem.

What is Poverty

Poverty is a condition in which one lacks the financial resources and essentials for a certain standard of living. Poverty can be characterized as not having a sufficient income or meeting basic needs such as clean water, food, clothing, shelter, etc.

According to ReliefWeb in their 2023 release, over 1.1 billion live in “acute multidimensional poverty across 110 countries.” Over 46.9 percent of people globally live in poverty, representing 44 million people. As early as last year, 333 million children globally were facing poverty in many countries.

As stated by the Census, 37.9 million people (11.5 percent) are in poverty in the U.S. alone; as of 2022. People of color have the highest rates of being in poverty, black people being the majority.

How do People End up in Poverty

There are many factors as to why people face poverty, some being higher living costs, lack of employment and opportunities, layoffs, low paychecks, and insufficient social services. Individuals affected by poverty face also have limited access to education and public services, along with facing social discrimination.

The poverty problem affects the well-being of communities and neighborhoods, resulting in an increase in crime and a decrease of easy access to resources.

How do we Help

Despite the fact the rates of poverty have declined hugely over the past years, it’s still a long standing problem that many people around the world encounter daily. That is why this month is so important– its crucial to be educated on this problem and how we can bring awareness to it, especially going into the new year.

Ways to Bring Awareness

1. Social media is a great way to start, you can easily reach a large audience. Make a website and a GoFundMe.
2. Food drives! From your local religious centers to schools, food drives are a great way to give back.
3. Donate!! Clothing, household items, and hygiene products are always in need!
4. Support friends and families who are struggling.
5. Donate money to organizations who specialize in helping the needy.
6. Educate yourself!!! Be the person to inform the people around you to bring more awareness.

Even if you don’t have the time or money, everybody is capable of making a change in some way. A little can go a long way!

Websites to donate to help the cause:

Care, Organization for Poverty Alleviation and Development, Global Citizen, Green Shots Foundation, and so many more!