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The Harbour Matters: Poverty Growth is a Suburban Story
A newly published study by the Social Impact Research Center shows suburban poverty rates growing at an alarming rate. While poverty numbers in Chicago have remained relatively stable from 1990 to 2011, poverty rates in the suburbs have nearly doubled.
Unfortunately, most anti-poverty dollars are still being directed at the city, despite the great need in our suburban communitites. Many suburban community leaders are conflicted when it comes to addressing the issue out of fear that acknowlegement of poverty in their area will slow economic development and worsen the situation.
Nonprofit organizations like The Harbour are the community's first line of defense when it comes to addressing suburban poverty. Although we've historically seen family dysfunction as the primary reason youth become homeless, we are increasingly seeing youth become homeless as both a direct and indirect result of family poverty. Because poverty disproportionately affects children, The Harbour's services are needed now more than ever. By providing stable housing and support to enhance both educational and employment opportunitites, The Harbour addresses the root cause of homelessness and nurtures youth into successful young adults.
Unfortunately, most anti-poverty dollars are still being directed at the city, despite the great need in our suburban communitites. Many suburban community leaders are conflicted when it comes to addressing the issue out of fear that acknowlegement of poverty in their area will slow economic development and worsen the situation.
Nonprofit organizations like The Harbour are the community's first line of defense when it comes to addressing suburban poverty. Although we've historically seen family dysfunction as the primary reason youth become homeless, we are increasingly seeing youth become homeless as both a direct and indirect result of family poverty. Because poverty disproportionately affects children, The Harbour's services are needed now more than ever. By providing stable housing and support to enhance both educational and employment opportunitites, The Harbour addresses the root cause of homelessness and nurtures youth into successful young adults.
Omron Makes a Difference - 8.29.13