Children enter the world full of promise matched only by the dreams and aspirations of us as their parents. So how can we protect not only our children but the future of this country in which our children will one day be in charge of? They embark on life's journey with relatively equal potential regardless of race, ethnicity, sex, or economic background. How do we ensure there are equal opportunities for all? Their economic and social development will be primarily influenced by the opportunities their parents, community, and society provide. Collectively, we are responsible for making sure the road ahead is safe and filled with opportunity. So, can poverty have an effect on the outcome of our children in the future?.
Children who are poor often embark on a life of poverty. It is very hard to break the cycle of child poverty. In a previous time education was the springboard to entering the economic mainstream. However, education is no longer as effective in creating opportunity. Schools in the United States have come to reflect the economic status of their communities. Schools in poor communities have fewer resources and often the least effective teachers. The expanding opportunities for personal improvement and success so they can enter the middle class that existed in earlier times have receded. What has caused this?.
1. Lack of education.
2. Increase in the poverty and low-income level.
3. Kids turning to the streets instead of the family.
4. Kids looking for easy way out.
5. Lack of interest and participation of parents in the lives of children.
6. Demand for both parents to work, less family time.
7. Low self-esteem due to no positive role models.
8. Rising cost of education, making it un-obtainable by so many.
9. No positive role models.
10. No good support system in place to insure their success.
During the time I did a lot of ministry work within the prison system and the Department of Juvenile Justice, I seen first-hand what happens to the children who fall through the cracks.