Source: Social Problems Class

“The average age of poverty in the U.S. is age nine.”

Equation for Poverty Line:

Poverty line= (minimally nutritious diet for family) x 3 Est. 1960’s

-The x 3 is to cover for non food costs-

U.S. Poverty Lines 2009:

Household size:             |           48 States (AK,HI)

1                      |                    $10,830

2                       |                   $14,570 ($3,740 +1 add.)

Issues?

The poverty line average hasn’t changed since 1960’s. The poverty line doesn’t cover additional, modern essential, costs that where nonexistent in the 1960’s such as having your own car, cellphone, internet, etc. Therefore, if you earn more than the set “line,” no government assistance for you.

Regional differences: The cost of living in a big city doesn’t compare to the cost of living in a small town. This isn’t taken into account.

Why do men earn more money?

1940’s: Family Wage: The man’s place in the 1940’s was to work, therefore, businesses paid men more to cover for a family budget. The family Wage calculation is still in effect today.

Issue:

Gender: “Feminization of Poverty” after 1960’s divorce rates sky rocketed. Women had little education and work experience which usually landed them jobless, in a low pay job, or homeless and usually with the care of a child or more.

Family patterns: Single mothers are the largest group to suffer poverty. FHH. Female Headed Household.

Regional Poverty

The Southern and Western regions of the U.S. have the highest poverty rates.

…………………………………………………………………….. page 1 of 7