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Explore the definition, measures, and data on poverty in Washington State, delving into the root causes behind economic disparities. Discover why economic success is more than just income and assets, and learn about the importance of power, autonomy, and community in combatting poverty.
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POVERTY IN WASHINGTONDefinition, Measures, Data, & Root Causes
Defining Poverty “Economic success” is foundational and entails many of the traditional measures of poverty, including income and assets. However, it is not enough. Equally important are power and autonomy, which speak to individual agency, having a sense of control and a say in the trajectory of one’s life and one’s community. And being valued in community speaks to dignity, belonging, social capital, and social inclusion.” Adapted from the U.S. Partnership on Mobility from Poverty http://www.mobilitypartnership.org/blog/poverty-not-just-lack-money
What storydoes the data tell us? • A great many Washingtonians are not able to make ends meet; many are living paycheck-to-paycheck • The majority of people experiencing poverty – under any measure – are working • Children have the highest poverty rates of any age group • People of color, rural families, women with children, and people with disabilities are more likely to experience poverty • Many children experiencing poverty today are at elevated risk of experiencing poverty as an adult