1 in 10 Americans live in poverty according to the US Census Bureau. Its been that way for the past 50 years.

So why are people still poor? If you want more than simple answers, read on for some suggestions.

Note that these are specific to the U.S. only. For a global perspective, start with the United Nations Sustainability Development Goal SDG 1 to “End poverty in all its forms everywhere". 

Being Poor Is Hard

Real-life autobiography of a maid working to support herself, go to school, raise a child, afford groceries, transportation, housing and healthcare. “Poverty was like a stagnant pool of mud that pulled at our feet and refused to let go".

True story of Dasani Coates: how do you handle a golden opportunity at a Pennsylvania boarding school when your mom and siblings still live in a Brooklyn homeless shelter with hunger, drugs, violence, housing, school, and legal issues daily?

Another true story of eight families repeatedly trying to find stable housing while it keeps disrupting family relationships, food, water & heat, jobs, credit, savings, and legal issues.

Poor Is Not A Choice

When you’re poor and the criminal justice system gets a hold of you, it puts obstacles you can’t possibly meet which keeps you in a never-ending cycle of poverty.

A very uncomfortable truth that the Haves in America enjoy wealth from systems that keep the Have Nots poor, even today.

The zip code you’re born into hugely impacts your chances of moving up, especially if you’re poor, and unexpectedly so if you’re also rural.

Fix It

Most people will move for better jobs and opportunities but aren’t because housing is too expensive. Housing laws, regulations & policies benefit the few while keeping most locked out.

Making the case for Universal Basic Income in a future America where automation will fundamentally change what jobs people do.

It’s true: people in positions of power can’t be counted on to help those without. America’s history is a story of the powerless fighting for themselves. 

Find these books at your local indie bookstore or at our online Karmalize Bookshop.

“Make It Make Sense” is our way of sharing ideas that go beyond simplistic stereotypical answers to big issues, starting with the UN SDGs. Through this we hope to promote curiosity and understanding of diverse ideas.