“Poverty is a lack of resources, income and assets necessary for a standard of living that supports economic security, physical stability and social inclusion.” A succinct definition of poverty found on the Government of Alberta’s website, but it just touches the surface of what poverty is and how it impacts those living in it.
There are currently more than 900 families accessing services through the St. Albert Food Bank and on any given month, 57 per cent of the families coming in are paying more than 50 per cent of their income on rent so there may be very little “extra” left at the end of the month. The lack of income leads into perhaps having to live in an environment that may not be as safe as one would need.
Having the funds to keep a secure roof over a family’s head is challenging, but it is needed to be able to provide stability not only for the kids but for the parent(s) who then can look at enhancing their situation through training or therapy, which will help to create a base from which to start improving their life.
A lack of resources can stretch into the inability of a family to be able to afford pay for transportation, which translates into a challenge getting to and from work.
Child care costs may be difficult as well with too few subsidized spots available.
There may be issues of not being able to afford a healthy diet that may lead into children struggling in school.
The ripple effects of poverty are far-reaching. Kids whose parent(s) struggles with meeting their monthly obligations may not be able to take part in some of the extracurricular activities in the school, which may set them apart from their peers.
Some may argue the importance of this aspect as long as the kids are housed, fed and in school how important are the extracurricular activities. Kids struggle enough trying to “fit in” without having the burden of missing out on activities. There are amazing local organizations that offer assistance to help kids get into sports but, like other places, can’t help everyone.
When there is very little left at the end of the month, some will turn to an alternative banking organization in order to pay the bills. This usually results in even less money left as the loan repayments (although better now than historically) are significant.
Emotional and mental well-being is difficult when experiencing poverty – the stress that results from knowing that you are unable to meet all of your obligations and are then at risk of receiving an eviction notice or having your power cut off can be paralyzing.
Being able to provide for your kids – whether it be food security, physical security (appropriate housing) – is important and may be out of reach for some families; some have expressed feelings of being a failure due to living in poverty.
These are just a few things that outline poverty – it is a very deep topic that needs closer investigation so stay tuned for more.
Suzan Krecsy is the director of the St. Albert Food Bank.
