Misconceptions Of Poverty In America

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One common misconception about poverty is the assumption that individuals choose to be in poverty. This misconception often stems from the perception that people are just lazy and lack the desire to get a job. The unfortunate reality is that individuals in America who are in poverty have jobs. Poverty is lacking financial resources for basic needs such as food, clothing, and shelter. Poverty is a rampant problem in the United States that affects people of all ethnicities and ages; solutions may include government assistance and greater awareness. Poverty in America is rising at a high rate. Approximately one-third of Americans are currently facing economic insecurity (Desmond). Factors that contribute to poverty include poor education, inflation, …show more content…
It is likely without the Great Depression, there would not be as many programs and agencies to assist those in poverty. The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on individuals in poverty. America shut down so the virus would not spread. Only people who could work during the pandemic were essential workers. A lot of low-income workers lost their jobs after business closed. Not only did low-families lose their jobs, but they also lost access to food pantries, soup kitchens, and other resources that provide free food to support and feed their families. In the United States, Mississippi has the highest poverty rate. The high poverty rate in Mississippi is due to a lack of well-paying jobs, poor education, healthcare, and generally low wages. All these factors have a chain effect that affects each other. Not receiving proper education means less of an opportunity for a well-paying job. A job with low pay is less likely to afford healthcare. Poverty in Mississippi compares to poverty in third-world countries (Jack). Race is also a factor in poverty. Native Americans have the highest poverty rate in America, with one in three living in poverty