Frequently Asked Questions Related to the Poverty Guidelines and Poverty
This webpage is an excellent pathfinder and primer on the federal government's poverty guidelines.
Material Listing
The 2011 HHS Poverty Guidelines
Links to a fact sheet and additional background information are provided.
The Misleading Way We Count the Poor: Alternatives to Our Antiquated Poverty Measure Should Consider Assets
This article explains and critiques the official income-based poverty measure, and provides historical background.
Most Low-Income Parents are Employed
This sheet shows that most children in low-income families have parents employed full-time and year round, and that many low-income parents are unable to find full-time, year-round work. It also addresses the concentration of low-income workers in the service industry.
Parents' Low Education Leads to Low Income, Despite Full-Time Employment
This fact sheet reveals the effect on decreasing children's poverty rates as parents, even those working full time, increase their own education level. Implications for policy are discussed.