Poverty in Africa? What about the poverty in America? (Earth, God)

[finalfrogo]

I have recently finished reading There Are No Children Here, a journalistic book about the poverty in Chicago. The extent and degree of such poverty was astounding, especially since I live only 30 minutes away. Drugs, violence, crude housing, crime, gangs...

Being a relatively new charity enthusiast, I wondered:

Is it right that some people are so concerned about poverty in Africa when we have so much of it right here at home?

What do you think?

[Green Gaia]

I think there are people in every country and corner of the earth that need help and there is opportunity for anyone who is able and willing to help to do so. And no, I don't think it matters where you individually focus your attention and help, as long as you are (if it is something that concerns you).

[Green Gaia]

Also, we have the infrastructure and programs and charities in place here to help those who need it. Many other countries simply don't and can't help the people in their country.

[evearael]

I believe that people should do everything they can to alleviate unnecessary suffering as they are able. They should follow their conscience as to where they feel they can do the most good.

[Katzpur]

Originally Posted by finalfrogo

I have recently finished reading There Are No Children Here, a journalistic book about the poverty in Chicago. The extent and degree of such poverty was astounding, especially since I live only 30 minutes away. Drugs, violence, crude housing, crime, gangs...

Being a relatively new charity enthusiast, I wondered:

Is it right that some people are so concerned about poverty in Africa when we have so much of it right here at home?

What do you think?

I think we should rightfully be concerned about poverty everywhere. I want to read that book!

[finalfrogo]

Originally Posted by Katzpur

I think we should rightfully be concerned about poverty everywhere. I want to read that book!

It's a good book, though somewhat disturbing to know that such poverty STILL exists in contemporary nations like the US.

[SunMessenger]

I heard a wonderful message today from a local pastor whose services are broadcast in our area. He stated that God wants us to be prepared for the end times as the day and moment could come without notice. He spoke that our houses should be in order and set in place like we were about to go on a long trip. Of course the message was to get our spirit in order and ready so if needed we could be called instantly and be ready. This thread made me reflect to his message. We must first get our own nation in order before we can adequately reach out to help others. At that point we will be strong enough to render aid and be an example to others . Floundering in a state of disorganization helps no one. Least of all the poor.

[Booko]

Originally Posted by finalfrogo

I have recently finished reading There Are No Children Here, a journalistic book about the poverty in Chicago. The extent and degree of such poverty was astounding, especially since I live only 30 minutes away. Drugs, violence, crude housing, crime, gangs...

Being a relatively new charity enthusiast, I wondered:

Is it right that some people are so concerned about poverty in Africa when we have so much of it right here at home?

What do you think?

d

Considering the poverty in Africa often makes our poverty look like wealth, yeah, I see nothing wrong with it.

otoh, if you do what you can locally, you have a better idea if some organization is putting the funds to good use.

Goodness knows, I don't have to drive too far out of Atlanta to find kids that can't even afford shoes.

It's criminal that in the wealthiest country in the world, our society allows children to go without adequate food, clothing, and education. That does say something about our priorities, doesn't it?

[Victor]

Originally Posted by Katzpur

I think we should rightfully be concerned about poverty everywhere. I want to read that book!

My thoughts exactly...