An interesting study was released this week regarding the increase in homeless and families living below the poverty level.

The new, revised numbers are troubling.  Here’s the deal: there is a new measure out of just how many Americans are right now living in poverty.  And the number is vastly higher than we thought.  7 million more than we thought.

According to a new measure by the National Academy of Science 1 in 6 Americans are now in poverty.  They put the overall number at 47.4 million Americans.  That is 7 million more than the Census Bureau’s calculation.  According to the Associated Press the Census number  “does not factor in rising medical care, transportation, child care or geographical variations in living costs.”

An eye opening aspect of the new measure says that 18.7 percent of Americans over the age of 65 are in poverty.  As for children – they find that 17.9 percent are living in poverty.

Those numbers are staggering.  We can look at this story and think, wow, that's so sad, or we can get up and do something. 

Poverty is everywhere.  Trouble is everywhere. Even in our backyard.

Angel Food works each and every month to help people get the food that they need and want at prices that fit into their budgets.

Thanksgiving Boxes are available now through Oct 28th.  A box of food to feed 6-8 people for only $36. What a deal!  St. Luke's has been given a challenge to help Military families through Camp Dodge have a good meal this Thanksgiving.

Can you help?  You can make a donation for 1 or more boxes now through next Wed.  Drop your check (made out to St. Luke's) by the church anytime before next Wed. or go on-line to www.angelfoodministries.com and place your order there. Make sure to note 'donation' in the notes section.

One person can make the difference in the lives of so many.  How do I know this...becasue I see it each and every month as we volunteer at Angel Food.  You have and continue to make a difference right here in our own backyard!

Thank you and may God's peace be always with you!