There’s a place for everyone.

Poverty- insufficient resources to meet your basic needs. I think the first common assumption that comes to mind is that ‘poverty’ is exclusive to money and finances. but in reality, what we need are the things and opportunities to maintain our health Holistically.

Holistic health health does include physical needs such as food, water, and shelter… but people also need connection and community to sustain their mental, emotional, and spiritual health.

Relational poverty (sometimes referred to as social poverty) is the lack of connection to a community, family, social network, etc.

Relational and Social Poverty can manifest in situations like ‘…no, I don’t have any references or someone to put down as an emergency contact…’ to the invisible experience of profound loneliness and isolation. Additionally, people who possess an insufficient social network can experience lack of general help, guidance, and favorable opportunities which then creates secondary issues which may include an inability to achieve advancement or improrved quality of life.

Who is at risk?- anyone. The ups and downs of normal life often change social standings and circumstances. Someone can suddenly or chronically find themselves in the midst of social poverty when they experiences situations like moving to a new area, death of loved ones, religious segregation, mental or medical illness, disabilities, changes financial income, homelessness, language barriers, divorce… and the list goes on. One’s personal circumstances can additionally be impacted by external circumstances as well- pandemic related communal restrictions & the societal shift from personal to virtual/ electronic standards of interaction and engagement.

Social media has it’s advantages, but also has significant limitations when it’s relied on to build and maintain genuine, transparent, and authentic human connections.

The solution is found in everyone. people need… people. togetherness, healthy connections, resources and opportunities…