Consider these facts about global poverty:
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1.4 billion people earn less than $1.25 a day, the threshold for extreme poverty. That is ⅙ of the world’s population.
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Nearly ½ of the world’s population (4 billion people) earn less than $2.50 a day.
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80% of the world lives on less than $10.00 a day.
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22,000 children die each day due to poverty.
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About 165 million children under the age of five are experiencing a stunted rate of growth and development due to chronic malnutrition.
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About 1 billion people cannot read or write.
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As many as 115 million children are not enrolled in primary school and 226 million do not attend secondary school.
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In developing countries, every additional year of education can increase a person’s future income by an average of 10%
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Children born to educated mothers are less likely to be malnourished. Each additional year of maternal education helps reduce child mortality by 2%
- Public school is not free in most developing countries where students’ families are responsible for the cost of uniforms, books and teachers’ salaries.
These are certainly some overwhelming statistics. Based on this information, you might be wondering how any one person can make a difference in addressing an issue of this magnitude. Believe it or not, you can make a difference. Here are 5 things you can do to help address global poverty:
- Pray
Pray for those in need as well as for discernment in identifying specific ways you might be able to support the cause.
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Spread the Word
There are many worthwhile groups and organizations committed to fighting global poverty and serving those in need. Do your part by spreading the word about their efforts. “Like” their Facebook pages, share their stories with your friends and encourage them to support these organizations.
- Alternative Gifting
In lieu of the traditional practice of gift-giving for birthdays and holidays, give the gift of a monetary donation in honor of a loved one or ask that a donation be given in your name to a charitable organization dedicated to serving those in need.
- Host a Fundraiser
Many organizations sell handicrafts and other products produced or manufactured by the group(s) they work with to help them generate an income to feed, sustain and educate their families. Host a fundraising party at your home, church or other site where you can sell these products and support these families.
- Sponsor a Child
Give a child the opportunity for a better future by participating in a child sponsorship program. Investing in a child’s future provides the means not only for individual educational advancement, but also the chance for him or her to become a contributing member of the community.
You have the power to make a difference. No effort is too small. What is your first step going to be?
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