Why Is Poverty a Problem?

Though there is no catchall solution to poverty, it is important to answer the question “why is poverty a problem?” There has been progress in ending poverty, but events in recent years have slowed things down; about 10 percent of the world’s population is still living under the extreme poverty line.[1] This has far-reaching impacts on people’s lives and well-being. If someone doesn’t get enough to eat, they won’t have the strength or energy to work. If they don’t work, they won’t earn money, and so the cycle of poverty continues.

There are over two billion people around the world who don’t have access to clean water at home. They must walk for hours over long distances to fetch water, causing many more problems.

Poverty also causes a lack of education, which, in turn, perpetuates poverty. The barriers to a proper education include a lack of money for uniforms and books and cultural biases against girls’ education.[2]

Because of these ongoing and serious issues, GFA World is working to address poverty on the continents of Africa and Asia. GFA’s Child Sponsorship Program makes sure that the kids receive an education along with nutritious food and medical care. Education is one of the best ways to overcome the cycle of poverty, opening doors that are closed to the uneducated.

Another highly effective way to end poverty is through the gift of farm animals, which produce income for impoverished families. They can eat or sell the milk, eggs and meat. When the animals reproduce, they can sell the offspring, which also greatly increases the income of a family.

“I am really happy to receive this pair of chickens,” said Mayra, a widow who received two chickens from GFA’s Sisters of Compassion. “But I am so happy because of your love and concern for me. I actually wanted to have chickens for a long time, but I did not get the chance to buy them because I do not have any source of income now. My son’s income is just hand to mouth. I believe this chicken will help me to raise at least some amount of income in the days to come.”[3]

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