January is Poverty Awareness Month

Poverty USA, an initiative of the Catholic Campaign for Human Development, has put together its annual calendar to help us all observe Poverty Awareness month. While the calendar is designed primarily for Roman Catholics, the activities are applicable universally. Incidentally, the CCHD is one of full partners of JustFaith Ministries.

The calendar reminds us that more than 46 million Americans live in Poverty USA. "Americans families were having a difficult time making ends meet before the recession. With continuing unemployment and increasing costs of living, more and more families have to choose between necessities like health care, child care, and even food," said the CCHD. 

So, as we begin the new year, we can start with observing, praying and taking action against poverty in January and throughout the rest of the year. Below is the calendar in pdf format a sample for a few of the days listed in the calendar.
 
January 2014: Poverty Awareness Month
 (Link to Calendar in PDF format)

Beginning with New Year's Day.
As we begin Poverty Awareness Month, reflect on Pope Francis’ inaugural homily: “…amid so much darkness, we need to see the light of hope and to be men and women who bring hope to others…”

January 2
46.5 million people in the U.S. are living in poverty. Ever wonder what poverty is like? 15% of people in the U.S. do not have to wonder. Take the Poverty USA Tour to find out more.

January 9
Continuing National Migration Week, read the Justice Prayer for Immigrants and reflect on the ways immigrant populations are abused. Click here for more information

January 10:
Is poverty getting worse? Who is poor? How much do you really know about poverty in the United States? Take the Poverty Quiz and visit PovertyUSA to find out more.