Breaking the Cycle of Poverty

In addition to knowing how to break the cycle of poverty, it’s important to understand how essential breaking the cycle of poverty is.

Poverty mindsets mean that poverty begets poverty. Parents who haven’t been educated often underestimate the value of education. Through their poverty mentality, they’re focused on the immediate needs of today, like getting enough food and water to survive. They’re not to blame; when every day is a battle to put food on the table or make it through a life-threatening disease caused by contaminated water, it’s hard to think that a big part of the solution involves sitting in a classroom.

At GFA World, we show parents just how important education is to breaking the cycle of poverty. Some call it the two-generation approach, which is one of the most successful models in aiding families to escape from poverty.[1]

Initially, some women in our literacy programs doubt how literacy could improve their lives. Some even mock women who attend— until they see for themselves the pride, confidence and abilities that grow in the educated women. For the first time ever, these women can count change at the marketplace rather than relying on the color of bills. They can read price tags and understand how much they have to spend. They can help their children with homework. Empowerment replaces shame, and hope shines through their faces—and spirits.


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