This title examines one of the world's critical issues, poverty. Readers will learn the historical background of the issue, leading up to its current and future impact on society. Discussed in detail are the causes of poverty as well as the effects of poverty, including homelessness, poor education, and poor mental and physical health. Also covered is stigma surrounding poverty, as well as U.S. programs such as welfare and other initiatives developed under President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Engaging text, informative sidebars, and color photographs present information realistically, leaving readers with a thorough, honest interpretation of poverty. Features include a timeline, facts, additional resources, Web sites, a glossary, a bibliography, and an index. Essential Issues is a series in Essential Library, an imprint of ABDO Publishing Company.