This blog is a place for journalists to discuss their experiences covering poverty. It works in tandem with onpoverty.org, a site run by Washington and Lee University's American Poverty Journalism Center.
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U.S. gives $65 million to help Florida families keep homes
The federal government is distributing $65 million to Florida counties to help local families stay in their homes. The large sum of federal money comes from the American Recovery and Re-Investment Act. Households that make less than 50 percent the median income are eligible for assistance. The money can help pay rent, utilities and security deposits for up to 18 months. The aid has been met with taxpayer dissatisfaction.
Original story
Labels: American Recovery and Reinvestment Plan, Florida
Florida bank offers hope with new program
In today’s uncertain economic times, homelessness increasingly takes the average person by surprise. Florida-based BankAtlantic is doing something to help: it has unveiled its “Homeless to Homeowner Program” designed to help people who have lost their homes secure enough money for a fresh start. Each dollar the enrollee saves is matched by two dollars from Bank Atlantic. Advocates of the program say the self-esteem it engenders is just as important as its financial benefits.
Original story
Labels: BankAtlantic, chronically homeless, Florida, Homeless to Homeowner Program
Florida college students turn to food stamps
Rising food prices are hitting college students hard, and some have turned to the government for help. The number of students receiving food stamps has increased 44 percent in one year, said the Florida Department of Children and Families. But many are not sure if they qualify, and don’t know how to apply. People who use food stamps can buy only fruits, vegetables, meats and other staples.
Original story
Labels: college students, Florida, food prices, food stamps, homeless, rising costs
It just doesn’t pay to be jobless in Florida
The top unemployment benefit in Florida works out to just under $7 an hour, less than what most fast-food workers in the state make. And that’s for anyone who loses a job, whether they had been bringing home six figures or a middle-class paycheck. The state’s weekly maximum benefit of $275 hasn’t budged in 10 years and is making the current economic downtown all the more painful.
Original story
Labels: Florida, unemployment, unemployment benefit
Study finds Florida leads nation in attacks on homeless
The National Coalition for the Homeless and the National Law Center on Homelessness and Poverty recently released a study of attacks on the homeless. Florida led the nation in attacks with 31 attacks last year. The study is available here.
Original story
Labels: abuse, Florida, hate crime, homeless, research
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