Poverty Issues / Public News Service

Texas educators said they want democratic representation and a voice in decision-making as-well-as professional training and development. (shootsroom/Adobe Stock)

Friday, September 6, 2024

TX educators prepare for upcoming legislative session

Texas educators spent the summer in meetings and workshops devising a playbook for the upcoming Texas legislative session. The Educator's Bill of …

Eviction can significantly disrupt a child's life and is experienced by more than 19% of children born to Black mothers and more than 11% born to white mothers. (Rafael Ben-Ari/Adobe Stock)

Thursday, September 5, 2024

Grant helps Legal Aid of NE Housing Justice Project amidst rising evictions

From July, 2023 to July, 2024, Nebraska landlords filed more than 10,000 eviction cases. That's compared with an average of around 8,400 filings per …

Nearly three in five households surveyed are not participating in SNAP. For those that are <br />participating, nearly two-thirds report that their SNAP benefits are exhausted in two weeks or <br />less each month. (mdurson/Adobe Stock)

Thursday, September 5, 2024

Food insecurity grows as Ohio food bank demand surges

The Ohio Association of Foodbanks has recently sounded the alarm over worsening conditions in the state's hunger relief network, with food insecurity …

Liquefied gas export terminals have zeroed in on the Texas Coast for a major expansion of the industry. (AA+W/Adobe Stock)

Wednesday, September 4, 2024

Climate activists along TX coast want LNG ban

Climate and environmental activists along the Texas Coast are celebrating after receiving favorable news from an insurance company covering liquefied …

Bozeman's current Affordable Housing Ordinance was adopted in 2022 to provide incentives encouraging developers to build affordable housing in exchange for permissions to build outside the zoning code, a type of density bonus, according to Forward Montana. (Adobe Stock)

Tuesday, September 3, 2024

Confronting Bozeman's affordable housing shortage

An advocacy group in Bozeman is calling on young people and low-income renters to take on the city's notorious housing crunch. More than half of the …

Beginning in January, new federal changes will cap out-of-pocket prescription drug costs at $2,000 annually for 56 million Americans with Medicare drug plans. (Adobe Stock)

Tuesday, September 3, 2024

Some older Kentuckians will save on prescription drugs next year

Around 60,000 Kentucky seniors will save more money on their medications in the New Year, according to a new AARP report. Under the federal …

During Hunger Action Month, key organizations are calling on Congress to protect funding for support programs as lawmakers debate budget proposals. (Adobe Stock)

Tuesday, September 3, 2024

'On the edge of catastrophe': A call to arms during Hunger Action Month

September is Hunger Action Month and a food shelf coordinator in Minnesota does not see increased demand going down anytime soon. According to …

Medicare enrollees will not have to spend more than $2,000 annually on prescription drugs, starting next year. (Burlingham/Adobe Stock)

Tuesday, September 3, 2024

Report: New prescription drug cap for Medicare means big savings

Hundreds of thousands of older Californians will see huge savings on prescription drugs starting in January, according to a new report from AARP…

Access to affordable medicines is critical for managing chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, depression or asthma and preventing emergency treatment. (Adobe Stock)

Big Pharma siphoning off critical health center resource

As Congress heads back to work after the August recess, advocates for the nation's safety net Community Health Centers are urging lawmakers to end …

The 340B program was launched in 1992 when Congress empowered the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to encourage pharmaceutical companies to reduce outpatient drug prices for hospitals serving low-income populations. (jarmoluk/Pixabay)

FL patients face uncertain future amid prescription drug program challenges

The 340B Drug Pricing Program, designed to provide discounted medications to safety-net hospitals and clinics serving low-income populations…

According to the 2019-2020 National Postsecondary Student Aid Study, 23% of undergraduate and 12% of graduate students experience food insecurity, translating to over four million students nationwide. (Adobe Stock)

Ohio's food insecurity bill: A path to academic success

A new Ohio bill aims to address the growing issue of food insecurity among college students. The legislation proposes establishing food resource …

The number of Kentuckians who had their power disconnected increased by 228% in 2022, compared to a 29% increase nationwide, according to a new study by the Energy and Policy Institute and Center for Biological Diversity. (Adobe Stock)

Experts: Utility disconnections in extreme weather harm communities

Housing advocates said they are seeing more Kentuckians affected by electricity shut-offs. In 2022, the number of Kentuckians who had their power …

The objective of the Health Connector program is to ensure enhanced and equal access to healthcare options for all residents, according to Dallas County officials. (Dallas County Health Department)

Iowa transportation program aims to reduce missed health appointments

County health officials in rural Iowa are using a new app to connect people to their doctors and cut down on missed appointments. The Health …

The SUN Bucks program helps families in Washington and 36 other states buy groceries while school is out for the summer. (puhimec/Adobe Stock)

Deadline for summer food benefits for WA kids approaching

The deadline is approaching for families to apply for food benefits in Washington state. The national program known as SUN Bucks is the U-S …

Georgia is home to 35 Community Health Centers and 384 delivery sites. (Adobe Stock)

Atlanta meeting focuses on role of community health centers, health care issues

The National Association of Community Health Centers is meeting in Atlanta this weekend to address the issues affecting the health care system as more…

IL poverty rates remain high despite landmark legislation

The Economic Opportunity Act of 1964 marked its 60th anniversary this week. The landmark legislation started the war on poverty in the United States …

Food waste is the biggest source of methane emissions at landfills. (Adobe Stock)

ND hunger-relief orgs play role in reducing carbon emissions

A new report said food banks across the globe are helping to significantly decrease carbon emissions and localized efforts are taking shape in North D…

According to the Urban Institute, low-income people with medical debt are likely to forgo needed medical care, have difficulty meeting other basic needs and face an increased risk of bankruptcy. <br />(Andy Dean/Adobe Stock)

Routine medical care out of reach for some low-income AR residents

By Tess Vrbin for The Arkansas Advocate.Broadcast version by Freda Ross for Arkansas News Service reporting for The Arkansas Advocate-Winthrop Rockefe…

Advocates said Arkansans who lost Medicaid coverage are missing vital doctor's visits. (AnnaStills/Adobe Stock)

Medicaid troubles continue for many AR residents

In preparation for the upcoming legislative session, workers at Arkansas Advocates for Children and Families are interviewing Arkansans about their …

The primary purpose of the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964 was to mobilize the human and financial resources of the Nation to combat poverty in the United States. (svittlana/Adobe Stock)

MI commemorates 60-year legacy of Economic Opportunity Act

Michigan groups working for social justice are marking a milestone this week: the 60th anniversary of the Economic Opportunity Act. The law is the …

Last Mile Education Fund estimates that investments that help 23,000 late-stage college students complete their STEM field degrees will generate $2.15 billion in wages over 10 years. (Adobe Stock)

Grants available for Colorado STEM students nearing graduation

Grants to help students overcome financial hurdles to complete degrees and certificates in science, technology, engineering, and math fields are now …

Each Community Action Agency is different, but many offer help with resume building and interview readiness as low-income individuals try to find stable work. (Adobe Stock)

MN agencies reflect on war on poverty, 60 years in

For six decades, the U.S. has carried out a coordinated effort to keep poverty levels in check. Support offices in Minnesota say there's still need …

Six decades ago, President Lyndon B. Johnson forged the War on Poverty by signing the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964. (Adobe Stock)

Reflections on 60 years of Economic Opportunity Act in NC

Tomorrow marks 60 years since the Economic Opportunity Act became law and in North Carolina, it is a moment to reflect and look forward. The federal …

The Community Action Association of Pennsylvania provides multiple services. In 2023, more than 19,000 low-income individuals received transportation services, bus passes, transport or support for vehicle purchase or repair, according to its annual report. (Adobe)

PA Community Action Agencies work to eradicate poverty

Tuesday marks the 60th anniversary of the Economic Opportunity Act, enacted in the 1960s as part of a national "War on Poverty." It has made a big …

A new report from the Pennsylvania Workforce Development Association showed some suburban Philadelphia counties have seen wage declines in recent years, including Chester, Delaware and Montgomery. (WavebreakmediaMicro/Adobe Stock)<br /><br />

Report: PA wage growth surpasses pre-pandemic levels, national average

Pennsylvania's wage growth has rebounded from pre-pandemic lows and now exceeds the national average, according to the latest "Pennsylvania Workforce …

A recent report found about 40% of Virginia's kindergarteners still need to build literacy, math and/or social skills. (Parilov/Adobe Stock)

New poll: Voters remain concerned about cost of child care

A new poll found voters remain concerned about the high cost of living and want the government to do more to lower their expenses. More than nine in …

In 2018, One Fair Wage gained popular support and was on the Michigan ballot. (Jim Vallee/Adobe Stock)

MI minimum wage increase could spark trend

Starting next year, Michigan employers will need to pay workers more than $12 an hour, following a landmark ruling from the state Supreme Court…

TennCare offers medical coverage to roughly 1.3 million Tennessee residents. (Dmytro/Adobe Stock)

TN offers free diapers through Tenncare, CoverKids

Some Tennessee parents now have access to monthly supplies of free diapers under the state's Medicaid program. TennCare provides coverage for …

The Goonies Solar project in Central Pennsylvania is expected to generate enough clean energy to power 33,000 homes annually. (anatoliy_gleb/Adobe Stock) <br />

Two years of Inflation Reduction Act in Pennsylvania

The Inflation Reduction Act was signed into law two years ago this week. In Pennsylvania, its effects so far include carbon reduction, job creation …

60 years into war on poverty: ND agencies prioritize adaptability

For six decades, the U.S. has been carrying out a coordinated effort to keep poverty levels in check. Support offices in North Dakota say while …

Florida has one of the highest uninsured rates for children in the nation. (Rawpixel.com/Adobe Stock)

Roadblocks to health persist for kids in FL

Health insurance prospects for Florida kids are not improving, despite pushes to increase coverage rates in the state. Florida continues to deny …

More than a quarter of Coloradans surveyed said they cut pills in half, skipped doses or did not fill prescriptions because of costs. (Adobe Stock)

Survey: Most Coloradans can’t afford basic health care

More than 70% of Coloradans believe drug companies, hospitals and insurance companies charge too much, according to a new Consumer Healthcare …

Participating hospitals will relieve outstanding debt for Medicaid enrollees and individuals with incomes up to 350% of the federal poverty level. (Adobe Stock)

Nonprofits urge hospitals to eliminate medical debt

Nonprofits across North Carolina are urging hospitals to help tackle the state's $4 billion in medical debt. A group of Black nonprofit leaders …

Yellow Springs Development Corp. has applied for a $200,000 Department of Energy prize for the microgrid project. The prize winners will be selected by the end of August. (oasisamuel/Adobe Stock)

Solar microgrids bring energy and opportunity to Yellow Springs

The small community of Yellow Springs, Ohio, is leading an innovative effort to harness renewable energy while directly supporting low-income …

The Texas Association of Health Care Centers says the state has a growing number of uninsured adults with severe chronic diseases, driving up the cost of care and forcing clinics to be creative in finding operating funds. (Adobe Stock)

National Health Center Week shows community clinics' challenges

This is National Health Center Week, and medical groups point to the growing demand for affordable healthcare services at a time when over 100 …

Undocumented immigrants contribute in many ways to Virginia's economy, including through farm work. (PaolikPhotos/Adobe Stock)

Study: Undocumented immigrants contribute hundreds of millions to VA tax coffers

A new study sheds light on the tax contributions paid by undocumented immigrants. In Virginia, they contribute nearly $700 million to state and local …

A free pop-up farmer's market marks National Health Center Week. Colorado's 20 Community Health Centers operate 243 clinic sites, and serve one in five Child Health Plan Plus enrollees and nearly one in four Medicaid patients in the state. (Adobe Stock)

Celebrating safety-net health centers serving 1 in 7 Coloradans

On Monday, Salud Family Health Fort Collins staff were giving away bags filled with fruits and vegetables at a pop-up farmer's market for National …

More than 425,000 people utilize services at hundreds of community health care centers throughout Connecticut. (Adobe Stock)

CT community health centers fill gaps in affordable, primary care

As Connecticut struggles with a shortage of physicians, community health centers are filling the gap. More than 400,000 state residents, many …

Nationwide, more than 2.8 million children received a lunch through the Summer Nutrition Programs on an average day in July 2023, a decrease of 170,926 children from July 2022, according to the Food Research and Action Center. (Adobe Stock)<br />

Report: More Kentucky kids participating in summer meal programs

The number of Kentucky kids who ate free breakfast and lunch through Summer Nutrition Programs jumped by 65% between the summers of 2022 and 2023…

While Missouri has traditionally ranked in the middle among states in the Annie E. Casey Foundation's annual rankings, it has been declining and now stands at 32nd place. (Jacob Lund/Adobe Stock)

From rankings to real insights: Missouri’s Kids Count data

Many folks are familiar with the Annie E. Casey Foundation's Kids Count Data Book, a look at child well-being in every state. In Missouri, the …

Every county in the Land of Opportunity has at least one food desert, putting the state's food insecurity rate at 15.5%, well above the national average of 10.4%. (Danieldzura/Adobe Stock)

AR governor addresses food insecurity among students

By De'Stani Clark for the Arkansas Delta Informer.Broadcast version by Freda Ross for Arkansas News Service reporting for The Arkansas Delta Informer-…

Connecticut voters don't want to repeal all the state's budget controls, but 46% of likely voters want to see

CT budget reserve could bolster much-needed social programs

Connecticut groups want Gov. Ned Lamont to use some of the state's budget reserve to fund social programs. The state has amassed a more than $4 …

There are renewed concerns about being able to reverse the longstanding widening of income inequality. But recent federal data did show that average wages had surpassed inflation. (Adobe Stock)

Fresh data shed light on income inequality in WI

Income inequality in Wisconsin continues its long path upward, according to a new academic analysis, and voices at the community level are hopeful …

The Hardeman County Community Health Center offers maternal health services, supporting women throughout pregnancy and postpartum. It provides care for early and mid-stage pregnancies and collaborates with a team of physicians to ensure healthy deliveries. (Hardeman Community Health Center)

Rural TN health centers celebrate National Health Center Week

This is National Health Center Week, highlighting the dedication of people working in 1,400 Community Health Centers across America - including 260 …

Homicide rates have dropped in the past year in Norfolk, Virginia Beach and Richmond, but advocates say gun violence remains too high. (New Africa/Adobe Stock)

Report: Violent crime rates continue to fall from pandemic heights

Violent crime rates in major U.S. cities are continuing to fall from the heights they reached during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a new report …

Native American children make up more than a third of the foster care caseload in Montana, despite representing less than 10% of the state's child population, according to a data analysis by the Montana Free Press. (Adobe Stock)

Racial gaps persist for Montana's Indigenous foster care youth

New research shows Indigenous youth comprise more than a third of the children in Montana's foster care system, despite making up a far smaller …

According to the National Retail Federation, U.S. households will spend around $140 on back-to-school staples such as notebooks and pencil sharpeners. However, other needs, such as shoes and electronics, push the cost much higher. (Adobe Stock)

School supply donations: Notebooks help but so do headphones, gym shoes

The average household is spending nearly $875 on back-to-school items this year, according to the National Retail Federation and Minnesota organizers …

Various institutions offer resources to promote financial wellness but additional hurdles remain as institutions debate how to extend resources within diverse communities. (kerkezz/Adobe Stock)

Arkansas banks reach out to 'unbanked' residents

By De'Stani Clark for the Arkansas Delta Informer.Broadcast version by Freda Ross for Arkansas News Service reporting for The Arkansas Delta Informer-…

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PNS Daily Newscast: Afternoon Update - September 6, 2024

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Poverty Issues

TX educators prepare for upcoming legislative session

Grant helps Legal Aid of NE Housing Justice Project amidst rising evictions

Food insecurity grows as Ohio food bank demand surges

Climate activists along TX coast want LNG ban

Confronting Bozeman's affordable housing shortage

Some older Kentuckians will save on prescription drugs next year

'On the edge of catastrophe': A call to arms during Hunger Action Month

Report: New prescription drug cap for Medicare means big savings

Big Pharma siphoning off critical health center resource

FL patients face uncertain future amid prescription drug program challenges

Ohio's food insecurity bill: A path to academic success

Experts: Utility disconnections in extreme weather harm communities

Iowa transportation program aims to reduce missed health appointments

Deadline for summer food benefits for WA kids approaching

Atlanta meeting focuses on role of community health centers, health care issues

IL poverty rates remain high despite landmark legislation

ND hunger-relief orgs play role in reducing carbon emissions

Routine medical care out of reach for some low-income AR residents

Medicaid troubles continue for many AR residents

MI commemorates 60-year legacy of Economic Opportunity Act

Grants available for Colorado STEM students nearing graduation

MN agencies reflect on war on poverty, 60 years in

Reflections on 60 years of Economic Opportunity Act in NC

PA Community Action Agencies work to eradicate poverty

Report: PA wage growth surpasses pre-pandemic levels, national average

New poll: Voters remain concerned about cost of child care

MI minimum wage increase could spark trend

TN offers free diapers through Tenncare, CoverKids

Two years of Inflation Reduction Act in Pennsylvania

60 years into war on poverty: ND agencies prioritize adaptability

Roadblocks to health persist for kids in FL

Survey: Most Coloradans can’t afford basic health care

Nonprofits urge hospitals to eliminate medical debt

Solar microgrids bring energy and opportunity to Yellow Springs

National Health Center Week shows community clinics' challenges

Study: Undocumented immigrants contribute hundreds of millions to VA tax coffers

Celebrating safety-net health centers serving 1 in 7 Coloradans

CT community health centers fill gaps in affordable, primary care

Report: More Kentucky kids participating in summer meal programs

From rankings to real insights: Missouri’s Kids Count data

AR governor addresses food insecurity among students

CT budget reserve could bolster much-needed social programs

Fresh data shed light on income inequality in WI

Rural TN health centers celebrate National Health Center Week

Report: Violent crime rates continue to fall from pandemic heights

Racial gaps persist for Montana's Indigenous foster care youth

School supply donations: Notebooks help but so do headphones, gym shoes

Arkansas banks reach out to 'unbanked' residents