A project explored female poverty in Saskatchewan, Canada, and its implications within the framework of Health Canada's Population Health Promotion Model. Data were collected through consultations with 59 women who had experienced poverty, interviews with administrators of agencies and projects that serve poor women, and a literature review. Findings showed that more women lived well below the poverty line than men. Factors that influenced women's poverty were employment, social assistance, and spousal and child support. Female poverty was examined within the context of the nine determinants of health listed in the model. Lower income meant lower social status, loss of control over one's life, and loss of individuality. Children and other women were sources of social support. Women saw employment as a source of increased social status and sense of personal self-worth, but obstacles made it difficult to get and keep work. Stress caused by inadequate housing contributed to physical and psychological illnesses. Poverty affected biology and genetic endowment in prenatal development. Poor women had poorer personal health practices and coping skills. Poverty also affected the children. Health services were difficult to pay for. Several recommendations were made: build health public policy, create supportive environments, strengthen community action, develop personal skills, and reorient health services. (Appendixes include 66 references and instruments.) (YLB)