Poverty Numbers Grow

According to a recent Census analysis, the number of Americans living below the poverty line increased by more than 1.3 million last year, even though the economy technically edged out of recession during the same period, a Census Bureau report shows.

The spike in economic hardship has hit individuals and families alike. The report indicated that the total percentage of people in poverty increased to 12.4 percent from 12.1 percent in 2001 and totaled 34.8 million. At the same time, the number of families living in poverty went up by more than 300,000 in 2002 to 7 million from 6.6 million in 2001.

The number of children in poverty rose by more than 600,000 during the same period to 12.2 million. The rate of increase in children under age 5 jumped a full percentage point to 19.8 percent living below the poverty line from 18.8 percent a year earlier.

These numbers amplify the need to get people back to work. Workforce readiness remains a challenge in many communities. Many workers are not prepared to enter the workforce and assume skilled jobs. More training and better training is a part of the answer, but solidifying workers' educational foundation is crucial if they are going to be ready for higher skilled and better paying jobs.

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