Americans aren’t thinking a lot about the poor these days. A new survey by NPR, the Kaiser Family Foundation, and Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government found that only about one in 10 Americans names poverty, welfare, or something similar as one of the two top issues government should address. Nevertheless, when they are asked about it directly, most Americans think that poverty is still a problem in this country, even in these generally prosperous times. However, the survey found the public is divided on why poverty is a problem and on what should be done about it. Furthermore, the survey highlights the experiences and problems of low-income Americans.

Summary of Findings (.pdf)

Toplines/Survey (.pdf)

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