Poverty in America
Poverty threatens human dignity and the ability to meet even our most basic needs — food, shelter and meaningful connection.
Child Poverty
About 11 million American kids live in poverty, nearly 3 million under age 5, putting them at risk of lifelong health challenges and mental, emotional and behavioral difficulties.
Food Insecurity
In 2023, 47.4 million Americans experienced food insecurity, a nearly 40% increase in just two years. Far too many people do not know where their next meal will come from.
Senior Poverty
Social Security and Medicare have dramatically improved the lives of many older Americans. But more than 17 million seniors — about 1 in 3 — still live in or near poverty.
What It Means to Be Poor in America
In the wealthiest country in the world, many of our neighbors can’t even afford nutritious food. They rely on SNAP (Supplemental Food Assistance Program) and credit cards to get by while forgoing medical care.
The Credit Trap
In late 2025, Americans owed, on average, $6,500 in credit card debt that carried nearly 23% interest.
The High Cost of Care
Americans owed $220 billion in medical debt in 2024, with 44% saying health care is hard to afford.
Monthly Participants in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
Source: KFF State Health Facts (FY2024)
Squeezed for Housing
The U.S. lacks 4 to 7 million affordable housing units for low-income renters, who often pay over 50% of their income for rent and are consistently hit with the highest monthly increases.
Homeless Kids
More than one-third of America’s homeless are families with children, who face lifelong challenges as a result.
A Free Lunch?
More than 23 million children rely on free and reduced lunch for a healthy meal during the school week.
Falling Behind
Since 1978, pay for the biggest corporations’ CEOs has increased 1,085% compared to 24% for workers.
By the numbers
For many of our neighbors, poverty is a daily fact of life. Whether it’s children, seniors, veterans or families living with high debt, the grinding reality of going without diminishes us all.
kids briefly escaped poverty due to the now-lapsed 2021 expanded Child Tax Credit.
of seniors who live in poverty receive no Social Security benefits.
households faced very low food security in 2024 and cut food intake.
of Americans believe safe housing is a fundamental human right.
affordable, multifamily rental units were built under the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit.
a providential Encounter
By the Grace of God
A teenage mom in jail for stealing a car seat. A teenage brother trying to keep a baby safe. Recognizing our sister and brother in the poor and overlooked. Working to heal the pain of poverty.
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