What is it like living in poverty as a child?

When people hear the word ‘poverty’ they often think of countries in Africa or South America. Many people also believe that poverty in places like Australia, the UK, or US only relates to those living on the streets.

However, there is so much more to poverty than homelessness.

Often the effects of poverty are so well hidden, we don’t notice how much people are struggling. It could be that the family next door to you, or the student you sit next to in class is finding it hard to get by day-to-day.

Of course, there is a difference between absolute poverty and the type of poverty we may see in countries like Australia. The United Nations defines absolute poverty as ‘a condition characterised by severe deprivation of basic human needs, including food, safe drinking water, sanitation facilities, health, shelter, education and information’. Although it is rare to see absolute poverty in Australia, some indigenous communities are considered to be in absolute poverty.

Generally though, poverty is used to describe the situation of people who are unable to participate in the regular activities that of society takes for granted. Often this may mean having to miss a meal in order to pay the bills, or having a family sleep in one room in winter so they can all stay warm without heating.

This year, Fervr is partnering with Anglicare to help raise awareness of poverty, particularly amongst children. We’re encouraging youth groups in Sydney to dedicate ONE Friday night to LEARNING, THINKING and PRAYING for young people who are growing up in poverty.

To find out more & register your youth group, go to http://lightupthestreet.com.au

If you would like to do more research on this issue, we recommend you visit http://www.stateofsydney.org.au