America's Poor Kids (Child Poverty Documentary) | Real Stories

In the United States, child poverty has reached record levels, with over 16 million children now affected. Food banks are facing unprecedented demand, and homeless shelters now have long waiting lists, as families who have known a much better life have to leave their homes, sometimes with just a few days notice. America’s Poor Kids meets three children whose families are struggling to get by, and asks them to tell us what life in modern America really looks like through their eyes.
Told from the point of view of the children themselves, this one-hour documentary offers a unique perspective on the nation's flagging economy and the impact of unemployment, homelessness and poverty as seen through the eyes of the children affected.
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[@alexisboatner7252]

I was worried about the children and the dog in this show. I'm glad you guys helped them out !!

[@abra968]

Alexis Boatner how they helped? (Not trying to be rude) Hi btw :)

[@sllimanomis5696]

Can you please provide a contact for the family in Iowa ? I live in Europe, but I would like to help this family with providing money for food.

[@theingenious1992]

Bro, there are many people in third world countries who actually will die if not given food. If you want to help someone help those guys. They don't even have a stable government in Africa.

[@brendapenny5143]

Good for you, if you rewatch the video the little girl said her last name, the name of the motel, & town. I hope you're able to find them & help them. They deserve it.

[@plzleavemealone9660]

The fact that these kids know so much about finances at that age... they look so tired, thin and depressed.

[@ceostbande458]

yeaaah kids in Baghdad or Khabul has cool life now XD

[@nt-go2sl]

@@ceostbande458 ?

[@adamantiuscloudcat1799]

@@ceostbande458 wouldn't it be because the west blew up their country into pieces? just saying...

[@tabularasa9104]

How does this happen in USA THE FIRST WORLD COUNTRY in all the world?

[@hashimgilani4336]

you hit the bullz eye of the matter ! Hunger teaches things that Harward can never teach you in so few years. SHE KNOWS WHERE TO HIT A MAN ! the sweet little thing (the one with glasses) brought tears to my eyes.

[@Angelica-qu9wd]

When the little girl started crying over having to leave her dog behind in the shelter... it just tore my heart to pieces. No kid should ever experience that.

[@y.harveynorman1392]

Heartbreaking for a child to lose a pet.

[@Clelia16]

@Pepe The Sucker i cried too.

[@RamenDreams18]

i dont get it why did they get rid of one dog and keep the other ?

[@levisacher8578]

@@RamenDreams18 the Motel probably either wanted only one pet, or disliked pit bulls. Or maybe the barking was a problem. In any case that entire scene broke my heart. The look on the dogs face when she was quarantined, watching her family that she's known all her life walk away for no discernible reason. Abandoned by the ones she loves and devoted all her loyalty to. Never mind the fact that Pitbulls are rarely adopted and often have to be put down, especially with as little training as this little girl seems to have had. I'm a grown man crying like a little girl at the thought.

[@joereplier]

@Zerevv so?

[@InannaofUr]

That little blonde girl with the glasses is wise way beyond her age. Eloquent, well educated and understanding plus a big pure heart. She will use her experiences to help others when she’s grown up. Respect to those kids!

[@tavaresxd]

i could watch a serie only with her

[@angelinasouren]

Yes, she's very smart. When she says "I'm a whole new person" and then corrects herself and says "I'm a different person". I so hope that she is going to pull through. She has something that has the ability to benefit the world tremendously, would be a shame to see that go to waste and for her to have to remain struggling. The stress takes a huge toll. There's something that I never see talked about in these documentaries. If you go through periods of food deprivation, as soon as you have money again, you often can't stop eating for a few days. It's biology. You may find yourself munching down 8 bread rolls in one go or three plates of spaghetti or whatever. You crave food. You may start aching and you get so depressed when you go with far too little food for a long time. People have no idea. If it lasts for a long time, your metabolism changes. It slows down and becomes more efficient but that is also why obesity can be around the corner as soon as you have enough money again. It's horrible for these kids and parents to have to go through this.

[@user-dc9oq2pr6v]

And they say white privilege exists lol

[@Marco-uc8cu]

As a mother of 2 who just lost her job I relate to this so much. I'm barely scraping by and my kids are starting to feel the effects and I feel so guilty. Please pray for us. Pray for America's children please amen

[@boscoalbertbaracus1362]

you, and everyone you know, tell them to stop voting for career politicians and democrats and we wouldn't all be suffering more than we ever have in decades...

[@lurt4315]

I hope you get a new job and can give your kids a comfortable life.

[@misschaos4296]

🙏🏻🙏🏻❤💪🏼🫂

[@tahjjake]

Why have you chosen you have childeren if you cannot afford it

[@etoileshine1011]

​@@tahjjakeDid you even read what she said? She LOST her job! She had them BEFORE!

[@katim2644]

The most heartbreaking part is how knowledgeably the children talk about their family's financial situation.

[@drewgarlando2469]

Right!! You can tell the “parents” project their personal problems a little too much.

[@johnnywalker8326]

I know. Children are very intuitive and empathetic. When I was growing up my Dad had a good job and my Mom was a stay at home Mom who was always there for us. We had a big house, plenty of food and home cooked meals, nice clothes, great vacations, new cars, regular medical/dental/eyecare visits and plenty of love and support. I never really thought about it because it was always there. I know I appreciated it all and I was a happy kid. These kids are very poor and they are very aware of it. It controls their everyday lives. But they are still so sweet and caring. It's sad that kids can't just be carefree. It's unconscionable that any child goes hungry.

[@gabrielarico0429]

Kids should only talk about how was school and I wanna play 🥺 not money bills adult stuff 🥺

[@johnnywalker8326]

@@gabrielarico0429 In a perfect world maybe but the reality is different for these families. When you live in a motel room or a shelter you are always right there with your kids they are going to hear things. Also kids are not stupid. They realize when money is tight it affects everything in their small worlds-food/clothes/shoes/toys/bikes. But yes it is sad that kids have the burden of worry and anxiety about these problems.

[@Koleys]

@@johnnywalker8326 I’m glad my dad was honest with me. Because he wasn’t honest with my brothers and they’re stuck up snobs that act like the world owes them something. They have no clue how hard my dad worked for what we have. And they’ll never understand his sacrifices

[@carlvensia5136]

"Appreciate what you have before life makes you appreciate what you had"

[@merycamos4270]

wise words

[@kaitlandoneill5512]

Very true

[@gatreyan7068]

True

[@sophial6155]

Just wait until Bidens been in office for a year.

[@annetteshi2234]

So true

[@HGdoglover]

I absolutely lost it when she started crying over her dog being taken into the shelter 😭 oh my god. These poor kids.

[@brookebailey4330]

Wow. The little girl with the blonde hair and glasses is incredibly articulate and intelligent. She seems wise way beyond her years. That's the kind of child that will grow up and make a difference in the world. ❤

[@sunshineandwarmth]

You mean, if she lives that long. Nobody mentions the unique dangers of being homeless, such as being such a visible target to the evil ppl wondering about who are targeting them. In FL homeless ppl routinely "disappear" bc they are often alone so nobody knows them or knows where they are bc they may feel ashamed of their plight or bc it is more dangerous to call attention to oneself. Homeless ppl are also targets to ppl who want to know what it is like to kill someone, so kill someone they believe doesn't matter BC SOCIETY HAS LED THEM TO BELIEVE THEIR SITUATION IS ENTIRELY THEIR OWN FAULT! And they want everyone to believe that so they post all over social media what they SHOULD have done to not have been in that situation in the first place. Am I making myself clear? Good. Then I'm out of here before my head explodes.🥶

[@cupcakes.97]

Your comment is magnificent!

[@volleygirl1018]

I was thinking this also! She is so smart!

[@martinez3690]

What saddens me is that most of the parents had an education, were in school, had a degree, or had a so called "profession", and yet were still placed in such difficult circumstances. That's why, we should never judge families under assistance, shelters, or plain homelessness because you really don't know how they got there. It could happen to you, you absolutely never know.

[@ydelysuarez2548]

Agree 💯

[@kikis.kosmos]

You’re absolutely correct!💔 It’s heartbreaking how some will treat those that are underprivileged or badly struggling, all because they’re judgmental. 😓

[@valeriehancotte-galan4790]

The cost of housing and taxes is absurd! That's why people have resulted to living in cars, vans, RVs, cargo trailers, school buses, etc. It's shameful!!

[@daniellejvidoes7016]

I agree, I'm one of those parents had everything going and then ended up back on assistance temporarily but I never judge someone else's situation because you truly never know! I give back depending on the situation but I know I will be blessed by doing it as well!

[@tropicaoptica]

Only have babies with a man who can guarantee financial security no matter what the potential future circumstances are. Woman should raise their standards and stop enabling mediocrity and the need for the government or employer to be their provider/protector. Even if we do get good jobs children need mothers who can stay home not be absent working being raised in childcare. So it’s up to the men in our lives so we should choose very accordingly.

[@jimmorrissy2276]

"This is not the great american dream" profound words from a child.

[@aikaterinimoschou9437]

Exactly my thoughts when I heard it.I really believe that the "dream", died the minute people went there to live with the blood of Indians so fresh,that the first crop was watered by it. In any case,it was/is an invention,so that people would/will work endlessly without any objections.

[@CAVIARDOG]

This girl is way ahead of her years.....very intelligent, despite all they lack

[@rafiqp8800]

Children from america are actually the most mature in the world. We wouldn't have it any other way. They will make us great again.

[@ThorFromPoland]

Yep, my eyes glazed with tears when I heard these words :(

[@Nodeal757]

Such a smart, self aware little girl! She's got the book and street smarts to be anything she wants to be, if you look away from the screen whenever she talks you forget she's only like 8 😔 she's seen alot but she doesn't seem bitter about it and that's hard to do especially as a child, her mum must be super proud of the person she's becoming coz it could so easily have went the other way where she was living. I kind of want to see an update but I can't fathom how things will be now covid here 😢

[@ashlynnnicole9334]

Wow that last quote will stay with me. People can’t stop you from believing in your own dreams. Wisest words I’ve heard from such a young soul

[@indiaalmighty]

When Johnny said “i’m 14, if i don’t go after my dream now then i never will,” i feel so bad for this kid 😢

[@yatkai97]

america has trillion dollars for weapons but not for food, health care and even home

[@rudegirlwins1682]

Yes

[@ajneskalde7155]

Well, cities don't destroy themselves - but poor children mysteriously grow up without support. America's reasoning, I guess.

[@olimpiasirbu5928]

You right🌹👍

[@aviationgamer3930]

Say that to north korea,

[@rudegirlwins1682]

@@aviationgamer3930 they don’t have trillions of dollars

[@rachelmary2836]

The little girl with blonde hair and glasses is so wise. And the young man talking about how his grades are his only way out, you can tell he’s an old soul too. These kids have faced such awful and stressful things, I hope all of these people are doing better these days…

[@anthonythomas8812]

Hello,thanks you're actually right.

[@mikec5400]

40% of the gamilies in america are facing the same thing

[@cuprunnethover2509]

Me too!

[@aqua6613]

I grew up in Germany on public assistance, my mom was sick and my dad was a dead beat. One thing I vowed myself was to never get on any kind of assistance, it's a spiral my mom still lives in, could never have anything more. I think it's a mind set which is why the opening statement by the girl struck me so hard because it's not true. In life you do get to make choices but some choices require sacrifice and hard work and relocation and definitely separation from people who carry that mind set. I'm a truck driver now all over the US about to own my own rig. That opportunity would have never been available to me in Germany where bureaucracy and laws and government involvement leaves no room for business growth. I'm 43 and maybe I fell through some loophole but growing up poor has given me skills and talents to survive. My best friend had two teachers for parents and in my eyes she was rich at the time but now looking back she was poor...she suffered from the pressure of her parents pushing her to academic success. I remember marveling about her parents being able to just shop everything once a month and money was no issue...I would visit her house and my mom would give me a little money and she would go with me to shop and come home to tell her parents how I was able to get so much food with so little money. I had to grow up quick and had just a little bit of childhood and so now I don't care when I get criticized for being childish or making childish decisions buying care bears I wish I could have had when I was 5...I take care of my bills and responsibilities. I was old when I was young and now I have a young mind being old. It's just how it is for some people but I don't fret about losing everything like some people do, because I never had anything in the first place. I know how to rebuild from nothing. I can go to Red Lobster but I am also not ashamed to eat out of a dumpster. I always remember where I came from and help where I can because there were other people who gave me food when I had none. I think the shame and stigma of poverty is a bigger burden than the fact of hunger...to be made ashamed for being poor is more damaging mentally and takes years to process. Atleast that was my experience, but a happy life isn't impossible when you're thankful for what you do have. Yeah it's a shame we want to call ourselves civilized and an industrialized nation and neglect the most vulnerable in society.

[@BethieBlasphemie]

I grew up like this and too thought my grades were my only way out. I still don't have kids because I refuse to birth them into this kind of a life.

[@welbyk7744]

This brings back memories of my childhood. My parents were addicts. They barely kept a roof over our head. I am 30 now and barely starting to be financially stable. I was a smart kid but wasn’t given the same opportunities to flourish. My parents couldn’t feed us let alone pay for extra classes and field trips. In high school I had to focus on working to help pay bills. Now I’m a store manager of a retail store and I get by ok. I still can’t afford healthcare. But I have a house and a car. To me that is making it. I don’t regret growing up poor. I think it made me a stronger, kinder, and more understanding. As I climb up I always take time to reach back and extend my hand to people behind me so they may climb the ladder as well. That is what this world needs more of. Kindness and generosity. Don’t judge anyone based on their income. You never know their circumstances.

[@grrlandi7180]

Thank you for sharing your story, I grew up not the best and I know how you feel, I now have a roof over my head and a meal everyday which is more than enough for most people I’m glad you help people out that came before you, continue the cycle of generosity, it is a virtue

[@peterwatson9280]

Mate your legend i wish you nothing but the best from aus

[@proudindiancitizen2494]

God bless you dear and keep you safe, healthy and in His grace and mercy always! Shine on!

[@user-dc9oq2pr6v]

The slur ''white trash'' was made for these kind of people

[@kaiakeair]

My mom was on terminal cancer when I was talking about life difficulties, what I would do without her. She said something like “on your feet, soldier”. That’s my goal since then. Keep sake, keep your health, grab all education you can, accept all jobs. Theese are the tools to survive. She passed away in august 16th, 2020. Thank you for everything, mom. Miss you so much.

[@StripperOfHorniness]

I’m so sorry about the passing of your mother she sounds like a very great women and best mother you had RIP to her a s I hope you are having a decent life and have a place to sleep every night

[@AnnetteMueller12]

God bless you and your mom in heaven 🙏 ❤️

[@fastfeather3025]

That young man talking about how grades are his way out of poverty. He talks about his future and has a clear understanding of his responsibility to any future children. I wish him all the best. I wish them all the very best.

[@aterryadg]

All three of those kids are wise beyond their years already. Little Sarah is so smart and precious. I wish there was an update in them.

[@TurboGroszek1]

Lol if he think grades gonna help him hes already lost. Of course hes just a child but come on i think everybody should already understand that school and grades are capitalistic machine to create new cogs. Children should learn good monetized skills as early as possible to secure good life. You dont need to know anything besides it to make good living. If you reach the point where you have enough money to sustain your free time use it to do whatever you want.

[@fastfeather3025]

@@TurboGroszek1 In order to monitize any skills there has to be skills to begin with. Where are those skills going to come from… an education, that’s where. I’m not sure that you even know what you’re writing about. There are money management skills and then there is monitizing skills. Those are two different things, and both required a decent education.

[@syzygy4365]

I hope so. He seems like he's on the right track.

[@Fr0s7y12345]

You guys talk about the black kid haven't you seen the other episode about these kids all grown up . Guess who became a criminal

[@clairejoe7694]

Poverty really made those children have to grow up ahead of their years.

[@Austyn_Young7]

???

[@jessannreece5672]

Yes! My God they're so mature so for their ages. They definitely grew up too fast.

[@louissix6046]

Yeah they really do I was able to Help my children out of poverty after the help of *Liussixhacks on insta*

[@josietolibas4723]

Yes. True.

[@Jaseme1]

They are really ahead of their years by way of reasoning..Very brilliant, it just shows how suffering can change ones worldview irrespective of ones age...

[@Serenity898.]

The reasons they are so well spoken is because they were forced to grow up quickly . Things in life can really wake us up. I felt I grew up fast when my father took his life.

[@glondikeink2167]

I grew up behind the iron curtain in Central Europe. Nobody knew this kind of poverty. I read about it in Dickens’s novels from the Victorian England. It is absolutely shocking to me to see it in the richest country in the world in the 21st century. I feel so sorry for these people. And for the dog…

[@BenjaminBox]

The USA is not the richest country in the world. It's not even in the top 5. Luxembourg is the richest country.

[@Celisar1]

The girl with the glasses is just fantastic. She is so intelligent, observant, reflecting, deep, eloquent and in addition cute as a button with a great personality. I so hope she is living a good life today! But of course that goes for all the other children in the film here as well.

[@Nanda2991]

Right?! She is so smart, sound like an adult. An intelligent one

[@harmonilui1238]

Just watching it nowww

[@Astrologyt2343]

She is so mature and smart. It’s crazy. Shows her mom didn’t talk baby to her. She grew up around adults and you can really see that

[@harmonilui1238]

Amber Sveinbjornson yes

[@Travelex90]

I was just thinking that!

[@heatherm8748]

It is terrifying to think this was before the chaos and destruction of COVID.

[@maryrobinson4572]

My thoughts exactly. Imagine the documentaries that will come out in the next year or so.

[@beer1403]

Yes the left destroyed this country with their Covid lies

[@WalkWithFaith7]

😢😢😢

[@superawesomejunkmonk]

Of course people have lived in poverty before covid. Kind of insulting you were so unaware.

[@spoiledmilky.]

@@superawesomejunkmonk don’t think that’s what they meant, obviously people struggled before covid. i think what she meant was, imagine how terrible it is now with infiltration in the world now.

[@bubblefae]

I grew up in homeless shelters too (during the recession as well) and I relate to every one of those kids. I was raised by a single mom and it was heartbreaking to watch Kaylie’s mom talk about her depression and panic attacks, and then cheer up when she talks about coming home to her children, she reminds me so much of my mom. Growing up poor was extremely tough but I learned many lessons and values that have helped me so much as an adult. I hope that these kids are doing extremely well today 💗

[@myyt3824]

It’s 2023 and I was just laid off from my escrow Officer job last month. I’ve had my cosmetology license for 9 years now. At 29, I’m so grateful to my 19 year old self for getting that license. I had a job replacing 100% of my income within 24 hours.

[@brittanypallett6458]

When the kid said grades are my only way out of here I was so proud. So many people take education and making the best of what you got for granted. So proud of that boy, his grades, and the effort he went through to get those A’s.

[@frankmangan2113]

Where you from?

[@apple20sara89]

American taxpayers money that suppose to be will it citizens instead 3.6 billions yearly is given to Isreal to build luxury house for Israelis settlers occupied Palestinians land in West bank and East Jerusalem.

[@tomlxyz]

@@apple20sara89 There's a lot of questionable spending of the US government but the one you choose to point out is a relatively small one?

[@emilychb6621]

@@tomlxyz Because the Israeli war crimes are current on our minds after the attack on the mosque... Next time the US attacks a foreign country it'll be the insane military spending etc. That's just how it works.

[@Catras_unfairly_gorgeous_smirk]

Grades aren't a solution. What's he going to do with all these A's he's collecting? Get into a college where he's going to take on crippling student debt, work himself insane while studying so he can somehow make ends meet only to graduate with some kind of degree, still be in debt, and settle for a job below his qualification because that's the only option he has if he wants to keep a roof above his head and food in his fridge. That's how it goes for the overwhelming majority of people immediately after they graduate college. Because that's how the system is built. You're going to need a lot of luck and twice as much drive and ambition to fight your way out of that trap, and that's of course only if the mental health issues you got by now don't eat up all of your energy. There's a few people who do get lucky enough, of course. Otherwise the "American Dream" propaganda would've died a rather quick death without those people keeping it alive and helping spread the message that it can be done if you "work hard enough." Times like these I always remember what a good friend of mine once said: _"The United States have somehow managed to build one of the most self-predatory systems that have ever been established in a first world nation all while convincing its people that that's a good thing."_ And Jesus Christ, was she right on the money with that. I'm glad I don't live in the US, but goddamn do I feel for the people who do. The entire nation is little more than a burning dumpsite at this point. I hope those trapped inside find a way to escape.

[@jessicahaller8722]

I’m watching this in 2022, and it breaks my heart because of how bad the unemployment rates have gotten and how high the gas prices are since this documentary was made

[@menahcharles7175]

😞 👏

[@twitchyeyeone8381]

Unemployment is at an all time low. Inflation is what’s hurting them.

[@galaxyshark3003]

My family has been affected by this, we lost out home, our pets, can barely pay rent, we can’t pay the phone bill so I can only call & text family when using school wifi. A lot of people have been affected by Covid & my family is one of them

[@serenityhomemaking]

Almost all industries currently have a worker shortage. Anyone can get a job right now. But yes, inflation is hurting everyone. Some worse than others.

[@diamondbeats2022]

It blows

[@abhasapre8047]

I am from India and have seen poor people. But this really broke my heart. More so because All the kids were such so mature and understanding of their parents problems. Wish no child goes hungry in this world. Hope these lovely kids grew up fine. Would love to watch a follow up video of these children as I think we all got attached to them watching this film.

[@doeheart7118]

It was said to see kallies mom slowly lash out more and more I can’t imagine the stress but those poor babies didn’t deserve her yelling at them those bright kids of all those families deserve so much more

[@potatoships9379]

the little girl is so smart and has a mind of an investor she realises that garbage can be recycled and a source of money. then she mentions how an empty factory building can be turned into a movie theatere. bless her heart I hope her future is bright and successful.

[@caribbeancurls1963]

light within all the kids documented seem to be wise beyond their years its quiet sad really , kids should be kids and shouldnt have the worry or the understanding of poverty

[@alexcarter8807]

I agree, but it's a rich enough society now that there *is* garbage to throw away .... in the 1970s (1930s part 2) nothing got thrown away. Seriously, if it was edible us or our dogs got it. We could recycle bottles but might find 3 bottles in a good *week*. Socialism can't come quickly enough for me, Capitalism is eating itself.

[@adriannagreen1764]

i was impressed with her comment. .i bet theres old money in there..very quick

[@jeffchangfl9134]

Who are you kidding she's dumb as a rock. Probably the fault of her genetics, upbringing, and lack of education so it's not really her fault but she's far from smart.

[@prench]

Very unlikely she will be successful, with her upbringing and education. Shenc ant help being dumb, but her future looks very bleak.

[@lacystarr9907]

These poor people and children put themselves out there for this documentary. I hope they received some help and compensation in return. I could not help but feel deeply for these families.

[@RaenbowBlight]

It's incredibly brave of them to share this with the world. There is a lot of shame attached poverty, and for the parents a lot of guilt. The instinct to hide the struggle makes it very easy to ignore, and if we can't bring ourselves to look, how can it be overcome?

[@tashajackson1905]

They made good money off this video I hope they paid them

[@samanthalowry6021]

I was thinking about how I’m sure a lot of these families only agreed to be a part of this because of the financial compensation. I just hope they weren’t taken advantage of

[@dross24MA]

@@RaenbowBlight How about if the rich shared some of their wealth via the so-called trickle down programs that are *supposed* to be the basis of equality in our country? Oh, riiiight...sharing doesn't come easily to the rich, does it?

[@dross24MA]

I sincerely hope you commenters talking negatively about them getting paid for putting themselves out there are wrong. Then again, maybe I kind of hope you are right that they did get helped.

[@acooksla]

This was the most painful film I have ever seen. These poor people, living without food, giving up their dog, squeezed into a hotel room with one bed, just tragic. Almost hard to believe.

[@juliemiller4288]

I'm a Canadian watching this. What an eye opener. I cried for those kids and families. I literally wanted to empty my cupboards and look after them. The pressure the parents feel is something I will never understand since I don't have children. God bless them ❤❤❤❤

[@ItsDioxide]

I’m also a Canadian and I’m a kid and I’m definitely spoiled so I always make sure to watch these and always be great fun for what I have and make sure one day I can give to those that don’t have

[@CremeDeLaNut]

It's getting worse and worse also. Without these types of videos and documentaries. Other countries would see America from the 1% point of view. They don't want you to see how it actually is for millions here

[@user-bu3jc8oe6u]

this is 6 years ago i wonder what Johny is doing now?

[@jkwellness1639]

"On TV it said they are raising gas prices and my mom can't even afford gas prices now." That broke my heart. She deserves to get to enjoy being a kid.

[@boscoalbertbaracus1362]

Well the new America thanks to liberalism and career politicians is, "life here is better for immigrants" and of course, the corporations, and the rest of us can suffer until we're no longer a majority of the population. At the rate this country is going I'll be lucky to have a home for my children.

[@AnonymousDumboOctopus]

@@boscoalbertbaracus1362 Lol what? Who is a majority of the population? The US has always been a multicultural melting pot inviting people over for the american dream. Majority of americans are not in poverty whatsoever. You struggling to find a job or pay bills is not the fault of immigrants.

[@katielove9932]

What? Your mom gets to enjoy being a kid? Where's your thinking at?

[@jkwellness1639]

@katielove9932 you're name is "katielove" yet your a contradiction.

[@gracielewfreebush]

“I think my mom kinda made a wrong turn, or something.” Very insightful statement for a child to make. Hope these families are doing better

[@daphnekarolinaa]

Yeah, she was born in the capitalism

[@samyandkitty8399]

I hope everyone who is a single parent all over the world manage better. U.K. benefits a quater of this for a single mum with one kid.

[@peony2242]

She seems to continue to make wrong turns. Very unstable lady. Why would the grandmother not give them shelter. Live together to support one another?

[@ashleyhammond1112]

@@peony2242 I thought of that as well. It’s strange they couldn’t live all together?

[@kb9847]

@@peony2242 unfortunately she's probably burned a lot of bridges.

[@theresabrown2763]

Is it just me, or is anyone really interested in seeing where these children are now and how they're doing?

[@norgegal]

There's so much sadness hearing these young kids being hungry not just that but knowing about homelessness, experiencing life like that... just heartbreaking!

[@uddamkumarrr]

The most horrifying part of this documentary is that these people are highly educated and some even had decent lives....and they landed in poverty and have no jobs.This is a very serious problem.

[@uddamkumarrr]

@@global4364 they are not illiterate and could very easily be employed...they have decent education and compared to the state they are being forced to live in...yes they are highly educated.

[@angelinarosaria]

If they were highly educated they had find a way to make more money next to the wellfare they get 🤑

[@uddamkumarrr]

@@global4364 So technically you are saying that because they have kids they are doomed...and government is not at all responsible for these people's misery.Most of the work done for the welfare for these people is being done by non profit organizations.Having babies is now a crime now??If so make it official...just because someone is in a difficult situation doesn't give anyone the right to blame them for their misery..Have some compassion.... for the unfortunate.

[@uddamkumarrr]

@@global4364 It is easier said than done.I think ypu didn't watch the full thing....Most of them wete employed and were leading decent lives...it is not like they were homeless and after that they had kids....and I just cannot understand how can you blame them entirely.The government has unimaginable powers but still it does not use it properly...America is the richest nation in the world...and you blame these beaten and battered souls.Money,resources, jobs,schemes,rules and regulations alll is circulated by the government.

[@STScott-qo4pw]

@@uddamkumarrr my friend, compassion in america comes with strings attached. if you want compassion frequently it comes with a price. it's the way they are.

[@sneasnake6368]

"I guess it was just the family I was put into. It was all for some reason. Maybe it's because we're strong. I don't know." Sara proves that children are more aware and wise than grownups usually think. I hope all these families gets through this and are giving the support they need. :(

[@theofficialunofficial7805]

I kinda grew up the same.. people use to tell me I grew up too fast . I understand it now, as.. you don't really get a full good child hood living in these conditions. The only good is with the freinds you have, .. this video has made me want to start something in my country as my mother never got the help they say you can get in my country, guess it's the same everywhere... Real people need to help real people

[@mad21a1]

Yea, this small lady is very smart

[@Sarah_Vanesa-Sophie]

Me two it broke my heart

[@bonita8176]

Little girl is so well spoken.

[@joselliott6]

The families are doing well. There are two updates (2019 and 2021) on PBS. It was originally a frontline documentary

[@crow-t-robot]

It amazes me how these kids can still be so optimistic and hopeful. I pray they make it out.

[@starfire_xi]

This is an incredible documentary... we here in the third world think of America like this perfect place, but the reality is different. It broke my heart that these sweet, intelligent children had to suffer and mature so much at a young age. I hope they are in a better place now :(

[@samanthabean9059]

Yeah our government only sees us as numbers I hate it everyone even middle class is now struggling bad

[@ChardeeMacdennis339]

The little girl with the glasses absolutely stole my heart. She’s so intelligent!! I hope she’s doing ok now. I hope they all are ❤️

[@beboplady1542]

That girl is so smart and precious.I hope she was finally able to get into good schools snd go to college. I would love to know what happened to her.

[@hft4704]

They are all so precious but she is definitely special. It’s all very sad.

[@daniellew.9957]

She is such a little sweetie!

[@sheilarogge2461]

OMG is she not just the cutest little thing....Her innocent lil personality and her cute clothing style. She will get somewhere in life.

[@shelley4746]

Right! She's so little yet, very matter of fact.."I know where to hit a man and make him hurt my sister & my mom taught me that"...Girl power!

[@bw8669]

Seeing Kailey in her mismatched flip flops crying as her dog was taken away just broke my heart

[@armorkinggaming1933]

Tough to see such things but still she had a pair, children in countries like India don't even have that.

[@wheresmyoldname]

No regardless of the fact that kids in other countries don't have flip flops, that doesn't change a darn thing about the fact that her in that position as a child is so heartbreaking and yes it was so sad to see her in those flip flops but more than anything her most prized possession, her dog, being taken... That's life changing to a little girl ir even adult, but a girl who has kept a smile on her face through all the struggles life has thrown at her... These kids amaze me with their positive attitudes through the worst of times they are so resilient! 🙌💪💓

[@armorkinggaming1933]

@@wheresmyoldname I think I said same, isn't it?

[@sanslvr]

@@armorkinggaming1933 You came across as dismissing of her trauma. Just becase other people have it worse doesn't somehow make her situation better.

[@itz_jusk8]

Luckly Nala was adopted by a loving family but it still breaks my heart to see her confused. I myself am an animal lover and that scene of her crying broke my heart

[@goofyahhh254]

My heart absolutely breaks for kailey 😢 especially when there is family tension. I just want to give her a big big hug and security, money. And this is just one family

[@zoeinez5061]

as someone who has been homeless in the USA , these kids couldn't have said it more elegantly , had me crying

[@WhileMyGuineaPigGentlyWheeks]

Aw I’m so sorry you had to go through that, Zoe. Sending love and warm hugs ❤️

[@JessieBanana]

I’m so worried about Barbara’s mental health. Poverty isn’t just not having money, it’s the daily worry she experiences. The responsibility for her children. Her depression and anxiety is understandable. It’s a toxic level of stress.

[@danielleschiazza6172]

So true.

[@deborahrohl848]

Yes that is true my country sends a huge amount of overseas aid but does nothing to help our homeless and poverty stricken here.

[@JessieBanana]

@@deborahrohl848 I don’t know what country you’re in, but I don’t believe it has to be an either or situation. Here in the US we spent 683 billion dollars on defense in 2020, less than 2% of that went to assisting foreign countries and we spent even less on non military economic assistance. Many countries that receive foreign aid are countries that are in the situation they’re in due to colonization, unfair trade policies, resource exploitation, and wars on their soil to the benefit of wealthier countries, so calling it “aid” is a bit misleading. It’s a matter of countries better utilizing their resources to benefit citizens, but it’s not that the poor people over there are taking money from the poor people over here.

[@tedtrash]

@@JessieBanana I was most moved by that scene, too. She is in a continual state of fear and depression and physiologically ones body can only cope with that for so long. She needs proper nutrition and rest if she is going to be able to face the challenges ahead. The mother's awareness of what is causing the fear is completely rational, and the solution should start with guaranteed food security for her and her children. There is so much promise and potential in that family but their situation makes it look like they are a train wreck happening in slow motion. To hear that the proposed solution is to medicate, when the cause is so clearly socioeconomic is heartbreaking. Xanax is not nutritious.

[@jimwerther]

In Dec 2021, an article was published following up on some of these kids. Do an online search for "Catching Up With 2 of the Kids from ‘Poor Kids'"

[@annielinn10098]

As a Swedish person I just gotta say thank god for free healthcare. Wishing the best for these families

[@annielinn10098]

@Right On obviously we pay taxes, but that means families like these get better access to schooling and healthcare.

[@Sara-tr2gh]

@Right On actually there’re a lot of free things, believe it or not in my country we get paid around $300 monthly, once we get into a public university

[@KimOfDrac]

Not really free. It's free for children but if you're poor, adults aren't able to affor the $10 - $30 it costs per doctor's visit. And don't even start on dental care

[@missnura4932]

Saudi Arabia also has free healthcare

[@kammille7805]

@Right On free healthcare in my country too

[@subtitlesonplease]

So sad for these families. It’s heartbreaking to witness how much homelessness has forced these innocent children to grow mature so fast. They’re dealing with very emotions and grievances. I really wish the best for these families, hope they’ve met better circumstances and have healthier and happier family environments/dynamics.

[@trishabowl]

The children in theses stories are some of the smartest kids I’ve ever seen. Their personalities are very unique & special ❤

[@notaburneraccount]

The 14 year old kid who said "my life is almost over until I'm a grown man" and talked about kids' dreams fading away hit so hard. These kids have so much of an uphill battle to be on equal footing with other kids. 💔

[@bcc7777]

I hope he's doing great.

[@Mysasser1]

It is the saddest thing. He will be straight. All of them will.

[@shayrob6053]

@@Mysasser1 Yes they will 🙏❤️

[@cuprunnethover2509]

I know! Lord help them! I just want to give them a big hug! Tell them its going to be alright!

[@hi-d12forlife]

The girl with the glasses is beyond adorable, and when the other little girl had to give up her sweet pup, I burst into tears. This is so heartbreaking. EDIT: I just came back across this post and I am beyond humbled by the amount of likes my comment got!! God bless every single one of you!! I came back to this video to check in and see if ANYONE knew where these beautiful little girls are now? I would love to start a GFM for these beautiful girls.

[@DeliaDeLyons]

Same here. I’m still sniffling for them all- including Nala, the poor dog who probably looked for and waited for her family to come back for months… until she was put down (just guessing). I’m so sad about ALL of this!!!

[@cheryl6662]

The dog doesn't know what's going on. Poor things. Have been there. I feel for them all.

[@cuprunnethover2509]

I know!

[@Gh0stkatz]

Growing up poor and the fact I can relate to this so heavily hurts :( now that my family is financially way better than what we was it gets better. It truly does get better.

[@LemonFreshKid]

I almost ended up like these kids...thankfully when my mum couldn't pay for rent my nan stepped up for groceries and stuff...It's an eyeopener to see how blessed you truely are..

[@SerbianMealTime]

the girl with the brother is actually really emotionally intelligent

[@SerbianMealTime]

@Kuchi Kopi I wouldn't go that far

[@StevenHeapRecipes]

why not?

[@chanyon6730]

Smart, not intelligent.

[@sonesay]

@@chanyon6730 Do you know what 'emotionally intelligent' is?

[@chanyon6730]

@@sonesay they are not intelligent or smart at all, also you.

[@jessvision8817]

Sometimes I get upset because my family can't afford lots of extra treats and holidays and other families can, but watching this makes me realize how blessed I am that I get a home, 3 meals a day, clothes, presents on my birthday, things like that that I take for granted. I hope things improve for these families

[@KiraHunter2310]

You are just like my 11 year old girl. Heart of gold, dont ever let anyone tarnish that!!

[@khanelias7292]

Same here I felt bad too sometime but videos like these give a push towards life ....agree with your opinion

[@jannatjannat2969]

I need a job plz help me

[@SRBOMBONICA86]

@Das Bienchen no its not right to be upset for irrelevant bullshit like holiday

[@instagramlive7236]

If someone drowns in a lake they’re still as dead as someone who drowned in a pool. Remember that.

[@melissajessen3596]

When she said maybe its the family I was put in to. Maybe its because were strong! That broke my heart & humbled me 😞

[@shawnise311]

Johnny is a very mature young man. They’re a beautiful family. All the families are

[@karma_banana9298]

“A Nation should not be judged by how it treats its highest citizens, but it's lowest ones”

[@breynoso19]

@Kimberly Love So because it’s worst in other places, we should be okay with this here? That’s ridiculous.

[@jaclynmarie6754]

@@breynoso19 o.g so right, that pissed me off, it's even worse now, she can swallow that with her cup of tea

[@dumbgenious1960]

“Now 18, Hegwood still lives in Iowa with her mom, in a rent-to-own home. She’s a junior in high school, balancing a 3.4 GPA with two part-time retail jobs. Next year, she plans to apply for colleges and universities in Iowa and Alabama. Her long-term goal is to become a veterinarian.” God bless her, what a successful girl, this is kaylee. Hopefully life brings her the greatest joys

[@jimwerther]

In Dec 2021, an article was published following up on some of these kids. Do an online search for "Catching Up With 2 of the Kids from ‘Poor Kids'"

[@jameshubert6103]

She still lives with her mom, hahahaha

[@BLR1GBattlemaster]

@@jameshubert6103 WTF is the matter with you?

[@ans5270]

are you Kylee from the documentary? how are you doing now dear?

[@grrlandi7180]

@@jameshubert6103 there’s something deeply wrong with you

[@dianagoins9891]

What beautiful families these are all of the children have such good outlooks. You can tell these parents are honest with their kiddos and at that age it's very important. I watched this whole thing with tears in my eyes. These kids are going to grow up with such an appreciation for everything they have, even though it doesn't seem like it you are wonderful parents.

[@melissawright5054]

Sara is such a doll. Right now my granddaughter is homeless living in a motor home I want to help her but I'm struggling too.

[@amazing_walks]

So sorry to hear that. Hope things are getting better for both you and your granddaughter.

[@Arinera]

I'm watching this in September 2020 and it's horrendous to think how many more families and individuals will suffer this fate in the current situation with Covid

[@jessiimamii5113]

I actually thought this was filmed during Covid 😳

[@sharonw8995]

Arinera I was thinking the same thing watching this. My heart bleeds for them and all affected by poverty.

[@froggylegspeople]

Arinera ☹️

[@hannahxconnors]

That’s all I could think while watching this in 2021

[@BillClinton228]

"I don't understand why they don't just eat cake?" - Said every politician ever...

[@fillyfairy2109]

i feel so sad for the little girl who had to give up her favourite dog. she loved her so much and it's heartbreaking to watch them be seperated

[@mutsis7341]

fr :(

[@EstherHulst-Artist]

I already cried when she got in the car with the dog

[@florencefassot56]

And the poor dog doesn't understand what's happening ......

[@Yuliafuji]

Ikr but they had no choice

[@azzrtb]

Yes me to it was so sad made me tear up 😢

[@JaneDoe-ql7sc]

The families in this documentary are all so sweet, the children are so cute, my heart goes out to them. I shall pray for them. This documentary was made 5 years ago, wish we could know how all the kids and their parents are doing.

[@peachfreude]

I remember wearing my shoes that has fallen apart like crocodile mouth to primary school. I held it together with rubber bands. Man the jeering and bullying that year sucks balls. I hope no one has to go through that. Government should spend more on school kids, give them all free lunch and give free school supplies to the less fortunate ones.

[@andreachastain222]

It’s sad, but it seems like some kids have to be taught not to bully and how to be empathetic. Not all parents teach this to their children. As an elementary school teacher I tried to be really sensitive to these issues (always taught in low income schools) and have Super-glued many shoes and sewn many backpacks back together and have bought winter coats for kids that didn’t have them. Woe betide ANY student of mine who bullied anyone or made fun of someone less fortunate. It’s not that hard to instill. Just asking them, “How would you feel if someone did this to you?” goes a long way toward helping that light come on in their head. Sometimes they just don’t think about the results of their actions. As adults we all need to do our part to teach this compassion to anyone who clearly hasn’t learned it yet.

[@HandbagDiva]

Oh my gosh the little girl with the glasses is highly intelligent. She must be at around 18 now. I hope their circumstances have changed for the better.

[@kaelob4847]

@@Eternally_Moon it was posted in 2017 but they were stacking video tapes, something I use to do in the early 2000's when we still had vhs tapes.

[@emilychb6621]

@@kaelob4847 yea but video tapes are free at this point in time, so why wouldn't they have them now? Just shows how poor they are. Weren't no 40 inch flat screens around in the 2000sm..

[@risotto4life577]

@@emilychb6621 The documentary first aired in 2012, so it is set in the early 2010's, which were pretty similar to the 00's :)

[@wolfzmusic9706]

@@Eternally_Moon they upload old docs

[@Eternally_Moon]

@@kaelob4847 Yeah sorry I realised that immediately, do you guys want me to delete my comment? 😬😬

[@buildbreesbod]

"Grades are my only way out of here." Yes! You are on the right path. My education saved me from a life of poverty. I grew up very poor and I knew that an education was the only way out. My heart goes out to all of the families. I hope things get better for all of them.

[@oneofthosemoments4564]

what education did you recieve if you don't mind me asking?

[@taraerskine3954]

Stay in school!!! If you don't you will regret it!!! I graduated h..s. but didn't finish college & that was a very poor choice.

[@lenamurray8736]

It is sad to look at these people suffering. but on observation àt the filthy condition they have their house 🏠 no one will want to give them a place. the mom is not working, can't she clean up? I'm sorry for the children that is growing up in this condition. they expect people to give them their house to house their dogs to defficate and urinenate everywhere. I believe this is why a lot of them ends up on the streets. they need to change.

[@naminaoberhausen2131]

Terrible advice for this generation. It is no longer fruitful to have a college degree, you need to get with the times and look up this information before you give this crippling advice to any more children

[@Hanami63]

Is what they say, but the one grandma has a Master's Degree and yet she can't find a job.

[@star.cat.]

This could happen to any of us. Especially in today’s world…I do hope those families are OK. These kids are all amazing 🩷

[@Johndoe-co3pw]

I genuinely feel for these impoverished families. I hope I am always fortunate enough to be able to provide for my family and keep them happy and comfortable. I hope these children find a brighter future ahead of them.

[@jayliverpool2597]

Sarah, the girl with glasses is very bright for her age, bless her heart and hope that her future is better

[@marsattacks9003]

what a diamond,what a mind what wisdom, i hope she gets her future

[@Morrighanangel84]

She looks like that actress who tried to be in a beauty pageant but didn't really fit in. Can't remember her name

[@Morrighanangel84]

@babsywoman that's it. Thanks!

[@JustMe-ot3ee]

I had more of an impression that she was just repeating what adults were saying around her. But yes, she seems like a smart cookie

[@elenagavrilova7499]

@@JustMe-ot3ee same impression. But I don’t agree with the saying that you can’t keep order in a small space. Actually you can, even with lots of stuff, just it’s not the priority there. If they feel fine, it’s their deal. But I hope that when she will grow this mess won’t be a norm..like this mess with their stuff won’t affect on them in farther life.

[@aviotomato5408]

When I’m bored I would open the fridge and say “there’s nothing to eat” even if it’s full, those kids really know what an empty fridge is and what starving actually means. We are all so ungrateful.

[@crusaderofthelowlands3750]

They'll learn something amazing though, something which a lot of rich kids don't get right away. Experience. They know how harsh life is and they know that holding a steady job, no matter how unprestigious it may seem, is a great feat to accomplish. They may be hungry now, but they'll never be lazy.

[@Hardie_Boi]

We are not only ungrateful but highly compromised with our cheap lives while other people starve.

[@jacemorgan-chan8715]

Don't even look starving I bet when they get money straight to macas learn to grow vegie garden

[@cinderea]

Crusader of the Low Lands or end up in trouble their whole life therefore never having stable employment. Never finishing school and also get involved in vandalism or prostitution.

[@jacemorgan-chan8715]

@Mr. Moon what drugs ya on

[@Im_Mandy]

Wow. These children are so smart, too smart for their age- you can tell they've been through tough times. As a former homeless kid, I promise that it gets better. ❤

[@Deputy_JRook]

"It makes your brain squish" Exactly, Sarah. Wise words.

[@jenniferlp959]

These people deserve so much better. When I was younger, I always thought America seemed like the most magical place in the world. The older I get - the more I realise how wrong I was.

[@danfield6030]

China has completely eliminated absolute poverty about 1 year ago. They had been working towards this goal for 20 years or more. Everybody in China eats.

[@maddy5842]

@@danfield6030 no they haven't ???

[@cyzcyt]

@@danfield6030 That's what the government and their media tells us. But when you are on the ground.. away from the skyscrapers ... In the the slums. In the urban villages. Or out in rural China. You can see that's a lie... and we know it, but no one wants to talk about it.

[@mayankrajsingh9745]

Ditto.

[@maddy5842]

@@cyzcyt exactly

[@noir6268]

We gotta do a petition for them to create a "where are they now" or something like that. Such wonderful souls, I wish all the best for the children and their families. I really wish I could see how they're doing nowadays

[@cay8821]

It might be better not to know unfortunately…

[@lilbaddie4502]

Saw a comment just a minutes ago that Roger died from a car accident. ☹️💔

[@snookies1224]

@@eylemao7061 not the same kids from this video

[@cadavher]

@@snookies1224 what? Yes they are. Those are the exact same kids all grown up.

[@andresr34]

Sarah is not there and dunno who roger is.

[@ap9569]

these kids are so intelligent and have bright futures ahead. growing up from a low income family myself it can be hard to find gratitude in your life when you know theres more out there. these children are brilliamt and so strong

[@jmm639]

I cried so much watching this. The children are so innocent kind and intelligent hard working. I wish the world wasn't like this. Makes me so grateful for what I have.

[@maddysenkingmiaqtuq5904]

“I don’t think it’s a good way to be growing up, it’s the family I was put into, it’s all for some reason. Maybe it’s because we are strong” the one thing I noticed is all these kids are so wise and intelligent. These are the kids who will be the change our world needs. They have more common sense than even the wealthiest adults who have gotten an education

[@RodrigoSantos-xs5kt]

Not the black kid, he was just annoying begging his tired mom for some brand name shoes when he knew she cant afford it

[@Cheiko18]

@@RodrigoSantos-xs5kt really? Because I saw it the other way around. The white girl was all self pity while the black family were back on their feet and working hard. The white girl talking about dreams and destiny like some movie character while the black kid was doing his best with the circumstances. It's scary how racism in the u.s has ruined so many people's perspectives and ability to pick the good from the bad.

[@RodrigoSantos-xs5kt]

@@Cheiko18 1. It’s not about race. It’s about how he literally begged his mom for expensive shoes while the girl accepted her life and tried to make the best out it. 2. I’m not American, never been to the U.S and always lived in places with majority of black residents since I was born. My mother is black and so are my 2 little sisters, so the fact that you accused me of racism without even knowing me is sickening. More sickening than that is you assuming that everyone that points out some incorrect behaviour on a black person is now automatically racist. Not everything is about race, I guess you have it pretty hard living in the U.S next time if your not sure about something just keep your mouth shut

[@allouicious1885]

@@RodrigoSantos-xs5kt 👍Thank you!!!!!

[@Cheiko18]

@@RodrigoSantos-xs5kt the reaction makes me wonder if you are still racist. One can be that race and still have internalised racism. I haven't lived in the U.S, saw too many americans bring in race showed bias but you clearly seem a bad judge of character and not realising a child being a child wanting 30 dolar shoes is not really a big negative trait and the girl was weird. She didn't accept where she was at all! Are you even watching the documentary? The boy was studying harder while the girl never once mentioned school.

[@ricecrispsandspaghetti2111]

My mom always tells me how lucky I am and now I realise how lucky I actually am...

[@caseymaree4370]

It’s hard to understand things you haven’t experienced or been exposed too. That’s why this sort of journalism is so important. There are so many compassionate, kind and giving people in this world who simply are ignorant to these topics and if just one sees this and it sparks a passion in there heart great change can happen. Bless you and your mom 💗

[@ricecrispsandspaghetti2111]

@@caseymaree4370 i agree

[@rainbowkitten8990]

@@caseymaree4370 You are so sweet, bless you ❤

[@caseymaree4370]

magical tato thank you beautiful. Blessings to you too 💗🤗

[@ballerinaTV]

Kind of hate how the lady at the shelter was so condescending to the girl asking if she could bring her computer: “Is that going to be a problem?😌” Like yes, it’s one of her only belongings/activities and she has no money or escape

[@reenym3577]

That child talking about 1 bill ruining your life, breaks my heart. No kid should starve in this land of excess.

[@rarejewel9678]

Maybe poor people should stop having kids they know they can't afford. Problem solved !!!

[@ios9jailbreakvids567]

@@rarejewel9678 the mom had a job and good income until the factory shut down. Can't know the future buddy.

[@donnatrice2017]

But food stamps should allow the families to eat if they budget carefully

[@idontextback]

That kid shouldn't have a clue about the bills . That's die to an adult dumping adult issues onto a child. And, don't have kids when 1 bill means famine.

[@shoonx3889]

@@workforaliving5763 If you can't see just how broken everything is and how many people are struggling, then you are completely blind. You have fallen for the lie of meritocracy.

[@BeardedKayakFishing]

I work in a school. For some kids, the food from school is all they get. It's heartbreaking. Also, for some of these kids, the only positive interaction they have with people is at school. That's why I always, always treat the kids in our school like gold. They need it.

[@hannahchase3881]

Society needs good educators, compassionate and caring..especially men..sadly and I can see why..not many men in the education system compared to women.

[@monicdavis6150]

❤️Your a gem! 😊

[@BeardedKayakFishing]

@@hannahchase3881 I'm actually the school custodian. I love my job. I interact with the kids a lot. Staff include me in about everything. Principal let's me pick a student of the month when the teachers do and I pick someone who I see helps, great student, classmate and shows respect to school, staff and students. I see the kids in the morning come in and greet them with high fives and fist bumps, play gym with them when I'm not busy, I love what I do and get be a big part of the school

[@tetelouise4558]

Vinnie you are SO RIGHT!!!!!! When I drove school busses 🚌 I saw the terrible circumstances that these children were living in....moms chasing the kids out to the bus, cursing & yelling....kids tell me to please pull off....cuz they are so embarrassed..... I would sit & eat breakfast with kindergardeners every day.....those kids spill all the dirty details about their sad home lives. Abusive dad, sick mom in bed all day, whatever. And I volunteered after school to do homework with the kids untill the community center closed. Those kids all -ALL OF THE KIDS- treated me with love, kindness, and gratitude. Many of them didn't even get time from mom, so they recognized a stranger giving attention. Kids are so much more self aware than they get credit for, and many of us don't realize that so many kids are mistreated or unappreciated. Thank you for recognizing those kids need you, seeing what they need & giving it. As you said, it very well could be the ONLY time someone is kind to them all day. 😢

[@nettemo5690]

Bless you!

[@thabingxakata]

I'm sad at the amount of information these kids have to grasp and understand, no kid has to worry about finances and working for gas money. At their age I didn't even know the price of a packet of chips but I still got them. Makes me realise most of the things I've ever complained were really nothing, I had food, clothes and a home and that alone is a blessing

[@eyeamtheempress6851]

these babies are very intelligent and aware of the circumstance. sarah is so smart and john knows that education is his way out. thank you for sharing

[@IamNotANumber]

The little girl with glasses was so wise, and absolutely adorable. I hope they came good.

[@kaitlandoneill5512]

I am not a number Hi how are u ?

[@IamNotANumber]

@@kaitlandoneill5512 very well thanks, how are you?

[@kaitlandoneill5512]

@@IamNotANumber I'm good thank you for asking how are u coping with lockdown?

[@IamNotANumber]

@@kaitlandoneill5512 OK, I have it better than a lot of people. It's not much different from usual if I'm honest. How are you finding it?

[@kaitlandoneill5512]

@@IamNotANumber it's going good . I have to do online school Monday to Friday I'm finding the work a little hard tho do you have to do online school ?

[@billijomaynard9081]

No one in the United States should be going hungry period, Billions of dollars worth of good food is thrown out by grocery stores every year, simply because it is not perfect. There is a law adopted recently in France making it illegal for grocery stores to throw away good food, instead they must give good food they cannot sell to charity or donate it to food banks.The U.S should bring about the same law.

[@user-zc7fk6mr6k]

Couldn't agree more! I have seen The Cheesecake Factory do that, a dish not made to their standard gets thrown out, so much wastage and I couldn't help but think how many people could have had a decent meal, and you know how big their portions are!

[@joycrwaites4952]

Billi Jo Maynard lol As a kid I grew up on our U.S food banks because I grew up in a poverty stricken neighborhood. Grew up, got a good job, got sick and now on disability so back to the food banks. Food banks are not on every corner but where the need is most dire. This is a large country so some demographics may not have these resources at their fingertips. Markets here donate to the food banks already and we happily take the soon to be outdated food and cut off the brown spots and enjoy it.

[@laurenjudd2782]

We're in a democratic country, how do we make this a reality?

[@chamade166]

Hardly a democratic country, more like a plutocracy.

[@lucinda486]

Billi Jo Maynard well to bad

[@darkone292]

This is absolutely heartbreaking. Makes one thankful for what they do have.

[@vidishamanikkara6121]

Never ever judge a struggling family because they are doing the best they can. I am forever grateful that I have never been through any of this.

[@rellascreativehub1280]

When the first girl said she distracts herself to ignore the hunger, that hit home for me. That's exactly what we did growing up poor. We'd have one meal a day and even that felt like a snack. As an adult, tolerating hunger became a norm because even when I have food, I've gotten used to ignoring my stomach growls. But poor kids grow up to be hella strong and wise though.

[@parishilton1170]

🥺😢

[@cindylouwho620]

True

[@lailusionista2564]

I related to that too, also the part about the tv. I am already used to eat one meal a day

[@princesslola1234]

The little girl with glasses is wise beyond her years. She is so smart and adorable.

[@sync9446]

True ❤️

[@Waspinvr]

She is adorable, i just want to give her a hug😭❤️

[@franktrautman2092]

I agree she is very smart I don’t want to make this about me but I was never talked to By my mother or father not onAnd intellectual level always felt like I was stupid all that to say at least these parents are communicating with these children

[@birdz_2939]

The part with the little girl talking about constantly changing schools destroyed me that they have to go through that 😢

[@tylerwatts2988]

As someone who works at a rescue mission, I see a lot of different types of people. Unfortunately, many who are homeless are in that position because they have an addiction and have done things to feed that addiction that have caused them to do some regrettable things. Than you have these families. They're all wonderful people, who are victims of circumstance, and the parents are trying their best to provide. i hope that now, these families are in a better position than before.

[@lostandfound3263]

It breaks my heart seeing these kids suffering and then I read that the Department of Defense's budget is approximately $721.5 billion, unbelievable.

[@puccipuu1797]

Different budgets different things. Like when you get wages and spend x amount on different stuff

[@puccipuu1797]

Also part of that is giving jobs to allot of people. So should they get ride of these job so they can give more to welfare?

[@ERIN_198]

It's called protecting the country

[@musicandfilms9956]

Sadly, the replies to this comment show how much America's people believe the lies of the corporate media. The USA spends vastly more per capita on war than any other nation. Its life expectancies are declining. It has no universal health care system. Compared to other wealthy societies it is failing most of its people. It is capitalist.

[@justpeace1262]

@@ERIN_198 lmao protect the people first, no use protecting the land of the people of the land are suffering anyway

[@dreamnight-mq1zg]

To see sarah look at the shelter thru the window and say “This is not the american dream”, just hurts. I feel her pain. I grew up poor, came from the ghetto projects with a single mother raising 3 kids on her own. There were a lot of days my mother barely had any money to buy us food, let alone toys. Most of the toys and stuff we got were donated thru charity. Seeing these kids go thru what i went thru, just hurts. No child in America should have to live in poverty. Truly heartbreaking.

[@margaretmac50]

Dreamnight. I am sorry to hear how difficult it was for you growing up. No one cared about the workers when they shifted all the manufacturing to China. Now the whole World is struggling to put food on the table. People like these families who want to work cannot find a job. How sad is this.

[@Erica3dits]

Ikr

[@lavidaesbella3583]

😫 yes

[@lonelyme..19]

Not just America! No child or human being anywhere in the world deserves to live in poverty!

[@juliacastro817]

No child anywhere wtf?

[@Silversoon78910]

These kids are so cute. It’s such a shame that they are struggling. They are so well behaved

[@nancy234ful]

This is second time seeing this. I pray this family get out of poverty.. little girl is so obedient .. mom did a fine job raising them . Moving around.. prevented them going to school . .. BE THANKFUL DONT COMPLAIN.. it saddens me she had to give up the dog. Hope you make it.

[@nereahokanga6935]

It's not much but I always buy food for this street boy who walks in my neighbourhood whenever I see him. I also try to teach him new words every Saturday. We have a spot where we meet up in my neighborhood, people think I'm crazy and sometimes laugh. I don't care, I'll do my part.. Love from Nairobi, Kenya

[@syazwinaasri4814]

👏👏👏👏👏

[@Anaya-19949]

You're doing an Amazing job 🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰 and anyone whose laughing at u tell them to mind they're own Bussiness 😑😑😑 heartless people

[@hienthanh5754]

You're doing such worthy and beautiful things that kid human being always do . Keeping on . wish you the best

[@sarahdixon6011]

God bless you. I did similar when living on the other side of your continent in Senegal. Sarah UK

[@kaitlandoneill5512]

Nereah Aww that's so sweet to do that I'm sure that he is very grateful for you keep doing what you doing because we need more kindness and love in this world stay safe Angel 💙

[@sapphirology]

I was hungry like this when I was a kid. I'm an adult now and have food, but I still have a lot of anxiety surrounding food that bothers me everyday. Those childhood experiences can affect you for life.

[@CuteBrainiacGirl]

Me too and therapy is great at helping that.....

[@gabadabadoonow]

I feel that I remember like not eating just so my sisters could have food to eat.

[@hollyc9144]

I'm right there with you.

[@emmawieson2121]

That’s me, but with money. Even though my husband and I are arguably doing well, I’m still stuck in the mindset that we won’t have enough for the mortgage or retirement. I’m constantly scraping our bills down every month. It’s anxiety he’ll.

[@hennijpw20]

Me too. Im an adult now and still feel depressed everytime my childhood memories bring me back to the past. When i was 8, My neighbour poisoned my dog and he died in front of me.

[@KeeKeeJo95]

This broke my heart! The kiddos are so wise too💕 I pray for a huge change on homelessness! 😢❤❤

[@DoubleTroubles729]

I wish I could help them ALL, I can’t but I will pray for these people who are suffering through poverty.