The Forgotten Fourteen Million: The Politics of Poverty

May 1999 A Coproduction with National Public Radio^SM

The rate of child poverty in the United States is more than double that in most developed countries. Critics of welfare and other social programs say government spending doesn't solve poverty. But neither has economic growth. After the longest peace-time expansion in American history, one in five American children is growing up poor. There's mounting evidence that poverty is not just a condition; it's often a trap. Children who grow up poor are more likely to get sick, more likely to die, and far more likely to fail in school - especially if they've suffered extreme poverty before the age of six. "The Forgotten 14 Million" explores why both government and the free market are failing the most vulnerable young Americans.
Transcripts Falling Behind in Kentucky One in five American children lives in families with incomes below the federal poverty line. Schooling Poor Kids in Minneapolis Can schools with an overwhelming number of poor children succeed? Children in the Fields America's farm industry employs thousands of children in dangerous conditions. The Politics of Child Poverty Why do Americans tolerate a high rate of child poverty? Susan Stamberg, Broadcast Host Talk back in the MPR Forum! How would you address child poverty? Should the government be more involved, or Americans more self-reliant? Answer these questions or ask your own on our interactive bulletin board. Related Links National Center for Children in Poverty Second Harvest Association of Farmworker Opportunity Programs Children's Defense Fund Food Research and Action Center Center for Public Integrity
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