The latest poverty figures are in from the US Census Bureau for 2011 showing that there is no significant change from 2010! Nearly 23 percent of the nation’s children live in poverty, that's nearly 1 out of every 4. Just as disturbing, 1 out of every 6.6 (15 in every 100) Americans live in poverty. With more companies moving overseas and the government cutting back on welfare programs, now more than ever, America's churches must step forward to increase their efforts to provide council, comfort, hope and substance to assist so many in need.

In Addressing the Needs of the Poor - A Church Mobilization Guide, author Mark E. Hazen presents a how-to guide to assist churches and individuals in starting or expanding an outreach ministry for the needy of their communities.

Hazen discusses not only the what, but also the how of serving the poor. This nuts and bolts guide establishes a foundation for action by acknowledging the biblical mandate for serving the poor and the emphasis Jesus placed on such service;

• dispels stereotypes and notions the public has about the poor;

• relays powerful insights and stories from those experiencing poverty;

• presents a list of common needs and addresses how those needs can be met;

• provides encouragement and practical ideas to help churches build their own effective ministries;

• shows working models from other churches revealing the who, what, and how of creating ministries;

• provides a look at the American welfare system and key programs; and

• communicates words of wisdom and guidance to help avoid pitfalls.

Included are tables, forms, and templates to assist in the formation of and administration of various outreach programs.

Addressing the Needs of the Poor shows that all churches, both large and small, can and must engage in the battle against poverty. Christ has commanded it. Christian love demands it. All churches can make a contribution to the total effort.

Chapters

1.   A Strong Foundation for Christian Action

            Scriptures are drawn from both the Old and New Testaments of the Bible to clearly establish the Judeo-Christian mandate to care for the poor.  Jesus put a high value on this mandate by saying, “For as much as you have done this for these, you have done it for me.”

2.  Exploring Poverty

            This chapter dispels the misconceptions we may have regarding the poor and replaces them with a broader understanding of poverty, types of poverty and people groups who live in poverty.

3.  Listen to Their Stories

            As you read the stories of those living in poverty, you will soon discover what they have in common, even though each has a unique story. You will see more clearly why they need your help and what that help might be.

4.  Build an Effective Outreach

            This chapter will help you understand each of the common needs that the poor have and even suggest how your church might meet those needs.  You may be surprised to see that there is much that your church can do that does not impact your already tight church budget.

5.  Learn from Other Churches

            As you begin to build your outreach to the poor, you will have many questions about the details of actually implementing, supporting and managing your ministry. This chapter features a wide variety of church outreach programs throughout Florida that will serve as models for building your own programs.

6. U.S. Government Welfare Structure

            Chapter 6 discusses the difference between 'Entitlements' and 'Welfare' and examines the leading American Welfare Programs.

7.  Rules of Engagement

            This chapter provides wisdom on what to do and what not to do as you begin your outreach.

Appendices

            In the Appendices, you will find many tools and other helps that you can use including tables and sample application forms.  

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