Information on American poverty and guidelines for action by local church groups are presented in this 1964 document. Briefly reviewed are the nature, extent, causes, and possible solutions to the problems of poverty in an affluent society. Also discussed are ways in which information on poverty may be gathered on a general and a local level. It is pointed out that personal contact with, and exposure to, the "invisible poor" are important aspects of a commitment to eradicating poverty. The final chapter is devoted to the ways in which churches and their members may help. (NH)