Child Poverty

 A lot of noise about "child poverty" recently.

What a load of horseshit!

"Child poverty" doesn't exist except in the minds of a few self-serving con-men and the odd halfwit.

What most mean is children living in low-income households - almost as 'low-income" as a very large number of Boomers' households were in the '50s and 60s.

"Child Poverty" is simply yet another dishonest, emotionally targeted attempt to steal from working people and give to those they think will vote for them.

One article I read had the author complaining that mortgage rates were not factored in to statistics about these families.

The reason could, of course, be that most of these families don't have a mortgage.

Let's explore the poverty bit: three state houses on independent sections in the same street.

Family 1 has both parents working at different times so they don't have to hire babysitting. Their income gives them the money to have the newest fashion in clothing and electronics, to use food delivery services and have two, newish cars. The children are entertained with streaming services etc.

Their house has a manicured lawn at front and flower garden to impress the neighbours and the rear is a play area.

Family 2 are beneficiaries, always wanting but never attempting to do anything about those wants. The whole family is fed by the taxpayer through food vouchers and school feeding with charities and foodbanks helping out. Outside the house is unkempt and unloved, a dump for used-up machinery, toys and household appliances. Children play on the street or at someone else's place. Takeaways are a common meal. Obesity and crime the only family output.

Family 3 have just one income. They have converted their section into several vegetable plots, each growing seasonal vegetables and fruit. Some of their produce is sold at a market but the majority is for the family. The gardening is a family affair and the family appears close. Children play as much as the others but, often, that play is also work. They have few gadgets.

Of the three families 1 & 2 have about the same income (if you include the free stuff), family 3 income is no more than 60% of the other two but family three live a healthy, happy lifestyle. Plenty of food, time together and love.

According to the statistics family 3 are poverty stricken. 

According to the conmen and halfwits, family 2 are, despite their actual income outpacing family 3 by a lot.

Family 1 is doing OK according to the statistics but, because of their spending, they have no plan B. Any sort of emergency and the children will suffer. 

Which family would you rather be part of?

Which group of children live in poverty?