Introduces articles in special issue on families, poverty, and public policy. Provides context for considering results reported in articles by noting recent public policy, demographic, and socioeconomic trends that will influence poor families in the future. Briefly reviews and compares articles and discusses research agenda related to the…

This document brings together relevant information on the topic of unsupported, homeless young people under 18 years of age. The stated purpose of the document is to identify policy directions which take account of the changing situations of many young people who are struggling to survive. Chapter 1 briefly outlines the background of the paper.…

Many issues remain unresolved when considering whether the welfare system perpetuates the poverty of its recipients. The debate often focuses on Blacks. No one considers factors such as the self-defined needs of the target population. Cuts in payment programs may be of some value but are not a panacea. (VM)

Because of low educational levels, a disproportionately high unemployment rate, and low earnings, Hispanics hold a precarious position in the labor market. The low level of educational attainment in the Hispanic community is the single most important determinant in lack of success. Hispanic men are underrepresented in managerial/professional…

Notes that Sweden has been making continuing progress in its conquest of poverty. Examines the Swedish strategy and discusses its successes in the areas of poverty, slums and housing, health conditions, and unemployment and the labor force. (NB)

Discusses factors accounting for poverty trends since 1965: government transfers, human resource and employment policies, macroeconomic conditions, demographic change, and changing education. Criticizes the current transfer system (including social insurance and welfare programs) for adverse effects on economic and social behavior. Available from…

This report highlights the interconnectedness of welfare reform and broader strategies concerning the economy, education, and the conditions of work. Recommendations are presented for policies that would help working poor families avoid dependence on welfare. The report is divided into five chapters. Chapter I summarizes major findings and…

This Technical Committee Report examines four tiers of retirement income: (1) social security; (2) private and public occupational pension programs; (3) income from assets and savings; and (4) needs-tested programs. A summary of principal findings and recommendations is followed by three sections discussing the statistical basis for this report.…

Analysis of United States government data on the status of black Americans in 1984 produces the following highlights: (1) the decline in black income; (2) the increase in black poverty; (3) continuing problems of black unemployment; and (4) the adverse affect of budget and tax policies on black income. (PS)

This report summarizes some of the testimony presented during Congressional hearings in October 1983 to examine the reasons for increased poverty in this country since 1979. Terms used in measuring poverty are defined, and data relating to the amount of poverty that currently exists, who the poor are, and how long they remain in poverty are…

An analysis of fiscal year 1988 funding levels shows that there will be many cuts in programs for the poor. The programs which will be affected the most are those which pay heating bills for poor households, those which provide emergency food and shelter for the homeless, and those which provide housing assistance for low income elderly and…

The homeless are becoming increasingly female, non-White, and youthful. The problem is a housing shortage complicated by poverty as shown in data from 12 cities where declines in low-income housing accompanied increases in the number of poor people. More housing must be provided even before other social ills are addressed. (VM)

Describes the "feminization of poverty" in industrialized nations and public policy created to solve it. Reports on a cross-national study of public income transfer policies in eight advanced industrialized countries. Contends that policy strategies can be devised to raise the incomes of mother-only families in the United States. (KH)

Describes significant problems that are specific to rural poor and particularly devastating to poor Blacks. Lack of jobs and the farm crisis are the main causes of rural poverty. Discusses funding for research and need for future studies. (JS)

The Single European Market will have serious effects on employment, production, and consumption in the United Kingdom. Of particular concern to voluntary and community organizations are the skills, gender, and racial gaps in the labor force. Organizations must develop the capacity to think and work within a European framework. (SK)