Salem-News.com Poverty articles Page 35

UN Humanitarian Chief Arrives in Myanmar Today

“If rice seed is not received within the next 40 to 50 days planting will not happen in time for harvesting this year.” - UN Food and Agriculture Organization

(GENEVA) - The top United Nations relief official plans to talk directly with the authorities in Myanmar in an effort to accelerate the relief effort for victims of Cyclone Nargis which may have left more than 100,000 people dead and severely affected up to 2.5 million others.

Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs John Holmes flies into Myanmar today. UN aid officials say there has been some slow progress in getting relief supplies and humanitarian workers into the most affected areas across the Irrawaddy delta in the south of Myanmar.

Tax Break for Wealthiest Oregonians Exceeds Lost Timber Payments

It is estimated that Oregon's wealthiest 1 percent will get 63 percent of all 2009 tax cut dollars going to state taxpayers.

(SILVERTON, Ore.) - As rural counties in Oregon grapple with the loss of federal timber payments, a new study out today estimates that the tax break enjoyed by the wealthiest Oregonians as a result of federal tax cuts on capital gains and dividends exceeds the amount of the counties' loss.

The preferential tax rates will slash more than $350 million from the 2009 tax bill of the wealthiest 1 percent of Oregonians.

DNC: McCain on the Environment: Different Issue, Same Double Talk

The Democratic National Committee says once again, John McCain is trying to dress up his record to hide his "more of the same" agenda.

(WASHINGTON, D.C.) - While Senator McCain is now trying to change his rhetoric after months of running to the right on the campaign trail, he can't change the facts. He has consistently put the interests of his key campaign contributors ahead of environmental protection.

His campaign is being directed and funded by the same oil company lobbyists who crafted President Bush's energy policies.

Coalition Releases Report Detailing Counter Recession Measures to Address Rising Needs

Congressman McGovern and Human Needs Groups Representing Millions Call on Congress to Boost State Economies, Help American Families Now.

(WASHINGTON, D.C.) - Today, U.S. Representative James P. McGovern (D-MA) joined human needs advocates representing millions of Americans to urge Congress to aid families and states hit hard by the recession. As Co-Chair of the House Hunger Caucus, Rep. McGovern emphasized the urgency of Congressional action.

"It's clear that we need additional economic stimulus that is targeted at those Americans who need the most help," said Congressman McGovern.

Al Sharpton and Civil Rights Protesters Arrested in New York

Reverend Al Sharpton led protests today in New York City over the acquittal of police officers in the 50-bullet shooting of an unarmed black man on his wedding day.

(NEW YORK) - Arrests were part of a civil rights demonstration that was organized and held today in New York City, in protest of the recent acquittal of three New York City Police detectives over the police shooting death of Sean Bell.

Before it was over, Reverend Al Sharpton, founder of the National Action Network and noted and outspoken leader in the movement for civil rights, was arrested.

Op Ed: `That Bull` Might
Just Get to YOU
Without Due Care NOW

Far too many Americans falling prey to racism-virus on vote.

(SALEM, Ore.) - One of my favorite stories is about a well-experienced old farmer breaking in another barn-worker. The kicker comes when he warns his younger friend: “Watch it --that bull is gonna s... right on you !”...but NOT in time!

Mid Valley`s Largest Food Bank Sees Surge in Middle Class Emergency

More middle class Oregonians are seeking help than before.

(SALEM, Ore.) - In the past month, the number of previously middle-class residents seeking emergency assistance from St. Vincent de Paul has spiked remarkably, according to Shari Crawford, who coordinates the non-profit’s emergency services.

Oregon State and Local Taxes Hit Poor and Middle Class Harder Than Rich, Study Finds

The analysis comes as a task force created by the state legislature and appointed by the governor is reviewing Oregon's tax system.

(SILVERTON, Ore.) - Oregon state and local taxes take a bigger bite out of the pocketbooks of poor and middle-class families than those of wealthy families, according to a new analysis released today by the Oregon Center for Public Policy.

Oregonians Worry Their Paychecks Won`t Cover Basic Costs in 2008

Yet they stay hopeful of local improvements, and eight of 10 people say they will take their concerns to the voting booth this November.

(ST. PAUL, Minn.) - Nearly one-third of Oregonians worry most of the time that their total family income will not be enough to meet their family’s expenses and bills in 2008, bringing the struggle to make ends meet to a very personal level, according to a nationwide survey released today by the Northwest Area Foundation.

Whether due to the depressed housing market, record numbers of home foreclosures, mounting debt or a wavering stock market, more than half of the state’s residents rated the local economy as fair or poor.

Recession Would Be Roughest On Poor Americans

Expert Offers Advice To Ease The Financial Pain.

(AMES, Ia.) - Roughly 12% of Americans live in poverty today and are unable to consistently pay for basic needs. That’s according to federal guidelines established in the 1960’s that have not factored in the increasing costs of housing, healthcare, utilities or transportation in the last four decades.

The number of people under the real poverty line in the U.S. could be two to three times higher. Non-profit organizations and government agencies are attempting to eradicate poverty, but the numbers show they are not succeeding.