The True Cost of Poverty

It takes money to live, but what if you have no money, no shelter, no transportation? All of these challenges become more difficult without a support network. Individuals who have grappled with financial lack talk about their experiences in hopes that others might understand better, and one advocate talks about what it takes to truly make a difference for those in need.
Read More: www.vpm.org/2024-02-29/the-tr...
www.pbs.org/video/the-price-o...
#virginia #poverty #transportation #economics #financialfreedom

[@emmapeel8163]

nothing compares to having your own place, a home to nest, clean, cook.

[@evelynfreeman4545]

I wonder if the person mad at her mom was her own DNA blood father

[@evelynfreeman4545]

Alot of these women are picking abusive men and are abusing thier own DNA children ...something strange is going on ...what is the whole story what was the mom doing

[@nadanalia3000]

Amen ❤

[@kevintackett7564]

"Nothing compares to having"...The Government to bail an individual out from their own failures! There, I fixed it for you. I was abused, imprisoned for 7 years, a drug addict for 20 years but nobody paid my food, phone, electrical, transportation, cash dividends

[@ViceCoin]

Rather live in Thailand.

[@bisi1980]

Removing a child from a home because the mother has no money for food only to give the child to a foster parent and give the foster parent money for food. Just give the biological parent the money!!

[@user-yb5bg8im5g]

it's called consequences. ''we know you are an unfit mother, here's free money.'' the home situation was the problem the child needed to be removed. the mother had 14 years to regain herself and regain her child. the chose neither.

[@rsviews2167]

No. It would make sense.

[@nv3389]

Neglect and poverty are two different things. If she is just poor, of course the correct action is to give the mother the financial support. This system is stupid

[@user-yb5bg8im5g]

@@nv3389 please see my response to bisi1980. if the money goes straight to mom, there are no consequences to her actions.

[@ag-xc7ix]

The system acts funny

[@gordonallen9095]

It's EXPENSIVE to be POOR. Been there, done that. Kudos to the men and women who live through those tough times and persevere. God bless them. NEVER think that it couldn't happen to YOU. Life can change in an "instant."

[@Geneviev285]

The Rich say it’s expensive to be rich…! The poor say it’s expensive to be poor..! Which way to go..????????

[@metorphoric]

It’s expense to live. Period. My husband and I are far from rich but we paid $35K in taxes last year and still owed the IRS when we filed this year. No stimulus. No respite. and there are people who say we should pay more in taxes because of our income. We are tired l just as much as the next person of being nickled and dimed.

[@Michelle.1952]

@@metorphoric Yes, life is expensive for all but some can afford it more than others. Did you and your spouse lose your home, transportation or employment because of your tax bill? Not being able to live how you want vs not being able to secure safe clean housing are two very different experiences. Yes, it just be hard to earn well above the average income only to see some of it evaporate but it does not compare to the experiences presented in this video. Your comment is extremely tone deaf.

[@Michelle.1952]

​@@Geneviev285 i didn't see the rich giving up and deciding to be poor so I'm guessing it's still better to be rich.

[@metorphoric]

@@Michelle.1952 the rich does’t have to “decide” to be poor. The government takes what they choose. Not to mention, there are plenty of self made millionaires who weren’t born into wealth.

[@lovelocked5385]

The first lady seems smart. No kids. It's one thing if you struggle. It's another if you bring babies into it.

[@terriesmith2616]

Agreed 💯💯💯 If you're poor and can barely take care of yourself financially, it's not fair to bring an innocent child into this type of struggle just to survive. It is best to not create children in this type of environment.

[@kloud1174]

Agree 150%

[@tammi67able]

True ❤

[@sandyallen1523]

Do I have to remind you all that birth control is NOT 100% effective and getting pregnant can still happen when you are trying your best to not get pregnant

[@sandyallen1523]

​@@citygurl0105very good point. Like when a husband leaves a wife and 3 young children for whatever reason. She might not have a job or skills because she was raising the kids

[@cynthiabakerwoodard]

Former foster care social worker here. The thing about reporting families for non-neglect, non-abusive situations can be the beginning of lifelong trauma for the affected children and their parents. Help the family or help them find assistance. Too often being in the system will be the first time kids experience any type of abuse. Stop judging and punishing people. Don’t be so self righteous that you cause unnecessary pain.

[@nikitawashington9328]

This is the truth the people that I met had issues being poor and when they were placed in the system they were abused mentally and physically until they aged out of foster care. It is a recipe for disaster and it often leads to jail. Help the family get assistance don't help separate the family. Separation can causes life long problems.

[@mummylilbear6088]

Some people are just bitter to others

[@blackken-jy9tf]

Instead of helping the poor family they take the kids. Crazy thing about it theirs a system set up whereby family’s that adopt kids get paid smh. It’s all a money grab for these evil rich people

[@lindsaywells5225]

How are children removed from biological homes SO EASILY but severely neglected in foster homes year after year suffering sexual/ physical abuse?

[@Iworkwithnitwits]

I agree. If lack of food was the only reason she was taken away then get them some food. Being in the foster care system can be traumatizing for little kids.

[@cynthiaadeyemi1746]

Poverty is mentally exhausting.😔

[@Veronica.A.]

So can wealth be too.

[@grind-n-find214]

Being in poverty is no joke!

[@BriaBarrows]

I’ve been broke, but not in poverty, thank God. And being broke is so depressing

[@JohnnyJackson746]

I know it sucks

[@HeatherOlmsted-bp6xc]

It's Awful , it like you can't get out of it !!

[@BeachBallCrusher]

How can you be in poverty but you got a cat???

[@blackbutterfly233ify]

@@BeachBallCrusherim like that. It doesn't cost much

[@jamieking8011]

I'm glad she has a place of her own where she can feel safe. I wish everyone else did too.

[@pattiannepascual]

❤

[@happygrandma4ruthP]

I worked in a home for teens in the system and the abuse children receive is unimaginable. I'm glad this young lady made it.

[@bonedee4859]

Why is abuse so common in foster care like that is crazy

[@cassiemontgomery45]

​@@bonedee4859I've thought about this too. Just about every person I have met that was in foster care ended up having some serious problems. I think some of it has to do with the type of people who are "fostering ". I think it depends on the state, but I know in my state foster parents can receive a check from the state for doing foster care. This check becomes the priority rather than the foster child.

[@DeBellanadi]

Yea why is abuse prevalent in foster care when foster care is the home they are supposed to Go to for safety from Their unstable home

[@Jojo01171]

The foster care system and the CPS fails to protect innocent children. Never seen someone come out normal from a foster home.

[@genacarroll9791]

$56 is a lot of money when you don’t have it I’ve been there gif bless you on your journey

[@choosey87]

Me too! I was homeless in college, work 2-3 minimum wage jobs, living off of $20 for food a week, but I made it through. Finished school and now work in the medical field making 6 figures annually ❤

[@rangerannie5636]

I'm there now. I don't have a driver's license any more because I didn't have $35 to renew it. The struggle is real... 💰 Sacramento, California USA 🇺🇸

[@jjones5345]

⁠@@rangerannie5636 dpss will pay the fee to renew (and/or reinstate for anyone else reading). Go to the county building and ask a worker. I was in the same spot once. ❤

[@Mz2Much2You]

Our Country Should Focus on Helping Us First 🙏🏽 We Need Help‼️💔

[@annafiorentin7120]

They are helping people they are taking care of the lazy people that don't want to get a job or education to make their life better. They want the government to take care of them of them. Everybody has the same opportunity to make a good life for themselves.

[@emilyfeagin2673]

@annafiorentin7120 I can’t say I honestly know any one lazy You don’t understand being so crushed by poverty that you can’t move forward You don’t understand people with mental illness Or addiction issues

[@boomehodd1656]

@@annafiorentin7120 oooooweeeee but they still cant be their own worker? or have a struggle income??? wow

[@scott7388]

⁠@@annafiorentin7120I somewhat agree; however everyone don’t have the same opportunity

[@Shawnne01]

Several times during my adult life, I have been on the brink of homelessness. This was while raising 3 daughters. It is scary for sure! You don't know what you've got until it disappears from you. I often had no transportation and no ride to the grocery store. Living in a small town during the 1980s, I walked to work, to the laundromat and to the grocery store. I had a small cart with wheels to carry things in and used to be called a "bag lady," What do you do when you have practically nothing? You fight to make it better. Almost the entire time, I had a job. Most didn't pay much. I get where all of these people are coming from.

[@Treemonieee]

Where was your kid’s dad???

[@back2the80s]

My small town is stuck in the 1930s. Terrible crappy bus. Long walk to groceries

[@navygf86]

I do the same but I work full time and earn a living and getting more qualified in sign language for the country I live in ( I’m not in USA ) I walk everywhere or take the bus as I don’t drive or have a car . Lucky we have deliveries now so this helps I get my food delivered once a month stock up and just buy dairy produce weekly if needed .hell this first time I did it since got my new home as before used always walk to the stores ! I get it but I’m surviving and living and I’m able go on a holiday once a year when I budget and save .i don’t have tons luxury either ! Don’t drink smoke cars or clothes or make up. Live simple life

[@back2the80s]

@@navygf86 delivery expensive it add up. Wish I could afford a car. Having to keep moving do to greedy landlords. Can never save enough to get a car. Tired of begging for rides

[@margueritendi7033]

❤ 🙏

[@tina8796]

Having children one can't afford is a vicious cycle. I've seen several generations repeat the same horrible cycle over and over again. You'd think if you were raised in poverty and dysfunction, you wouldn't repeat the same thing.

[@dyoung2739]

Even w/support, addictions are difficult to overcome. GED tests should be free. Homelessness & world hunger should be nonexistent. Love seems like such a nice person. I’m glad that has God protected her. Continued blessings to her.

[@Cari.diamond1]

My heart goes out to hardworking people with financial struggle. God guide these people to abundance. This story has humbled me.

[@user-eu3qy8uf7f]

I feel for these folks. I went through it being childhood poor. Went to military to escape,and have a job. Then student poor, working poor. Then unemployed, under employed and brief stints on assistance and food stamps especially during recessions. And a couple of evictions. And two weeks being homeless. I caught hell Not to mention a few mean, unkind roommates, family and others along the way. Finally got my own place 20 years ago and finally don't have to struggle and I have a good prosperity. Praise God. And blessings to these two in this story.

[@emilyfeagin2673]

Thank you for your service

[@user-eu3qy8uf7f]

@@emilyfeagin2673 Best thing I ever did😊🏋️‍♂️

[@HanaMarshmallows]

Wish I could’ve done the military unfortunately they rejected me because of my autoimmune disorder oof

[@roselynholloway7863]

@@HanaMarshmallows yeah that sucks

[@Iworkwithnitwits]

Thank you for your service. No military person should ever end up homeless or hungry.

[@jupitersOpulence]

There are food pantries and resources that they should have given the mom of the first woman

[@freeinghumanitynow]

Folks would be surprised if how many poor people are just unaware of the resources available to them in their area.

[@jessicasmith5728]

I said something similar in my initial comment. Love's mother should've been given resources and been admitted into a job program to help her get back on her feet. Love and her sister had to struggle even moreso beginning in their childhood because someone lied about her mother when she was just struggling to make ends meet. She didn't appear to be intentionally abusive or neglectful. The social worker should've done a thorough investigation instead of just automatically taking the children away. If her mom was given resources to help her, then Love and her sister would've never went through foster care.

[@rangerannie5636]

You'd think they would do everything possible to keep children in the home. That's what they do for pets. 🐕 🐈‍⬛ Sacramento, California USA 🇺🇸

[@MargaritaMagdalena]

The system is sick.

[@munaali840]

the system punishes poverty, a lot of kids could escape care if the parent was helped with a job. abusive parents or drug addicts should have their children taken off them but people in poverty need help with jobs, that would be cheaper than what it takes for the care system to house and raise them

[@Help_im_sad]

I'm rationing my food in NYC. Hunger is a demonic hell that I hope we can end in this century.

[@girijag.62]

I hope things get better for you.

[@Help_im_sad]

@@girijag.62 thanks. I hope it gets better for all of us. I'm holding out two more months till I get my technical certification and then I'll be able to finally pay more taxes. 💸

[@danyelgarcia3689]

I go to food pantries at churches. They help me and my family.

[@Help_im_sad]

@@danyelgarcia3689 I'm about to go to one on Monday. I can't wait for the "great reset" of real estate prices. The only losers will be the rich.

[@lc6636]

@@Help_im_sadThere will not be a reset. The new plan is illegals. They will work and pay taxes.

[@joycewright5386]

I wish I could find someone like that first lady to help. I have no children and would love to help someone like her.

[@daughterofthemosthigh3417]

Reach out, do it

[@757Princess]

I understand wanting to help the right person. Don’t let that stop your kindness ❤

[@suen5006]

You can. Connect with your local food bank or homeless shelter.

[@s1234pro]

Become a foster parent. Save the money you receive for your foster child and give it to her once she ages out of foster care. She'll have several thousand dollars to start her life.

[@margueritendi7033]

​@@s1234pro❤

[@carmenultra1]

I’m very proud of her, she’s doing great and more than people who are able. Bless her!

[@chinaarlene7035]

No, she's not doing great. She's struggling something terrible.

[@torriebrown9607]

This is so UNBELIEVABLE . We are supposed to be the riches country in the world. I pray for all of us🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽.

[@JAY88220]

And yet the greediest

[@cynthiabakerwoodard]

Being the richest (which we no longer are) country in the world matters not if we are not just and good stewards with that wealth. If all of the wealth is intentionally concentrated in a small sector of the national population and systems and programs are created to distribute the remainder of the funds through prescribed, permanent, and unfair means, then the status of richest country in the world means nothing for it’s citizens.

[@Imissyoulou]

In all due respect, You can pray until you faint, unless you get up and try to do something, God is not going to drop it in your lap. Fannie Lou Hamer

[@kalijasin]

The corporate profiteering, price gouging, excessive greed by the wealthy, etc.. can only go on for so long. That will all one day cause the economy to implode and when it does we will be in a great depression 2.0

[@torriebrown9607]

@@cynthiabakerwoodard Well Said and Thank You

[@quit2quilt525]

Love Dixon was smart! She weathered and is weathering the storm. She didn’t go out and have children, bringing them into a life of despair. Such a selfless act that many other women don’t seem to consider. Now that she’s newly married (I think the video mentioned), her husband and herself can work together to improve their current situation and, I know no doubt, become successful. Time and determination will prove this to be true. I’m proud of her for rising above the barriers before her. Keep going Love, you got this!

[@yagga8885]

She’s a champ for sure

[@somewhereinspace2166]

Many women seem to think that welfare will save them if they have a bunch of kids they can't afford. My sister went that route, having 4 children she can't take care of. They live in a tiny government apartment with no real income other than food stamps. I went to community college and my life has turned out so much better. It makes me angry what she is putting her kids through, just so she doesn't have to work up the ladder like the rest of us.

[@Michelle.1952]

"she didn't go out and have children..." 1) you do realize that even if she did, her AND the man would be just as culpable right? It's not just women responsible for having children especially when there's a 9-month gestational period for one child, whereas men can impregnate two or three women a day. 2) if women shouldn't have children in poverty should they only have them if they're wealthy? And I'm certain if she were to consider how much money her potential partner eating, she would be considered a gold digger.

[@Michelle.1952]

​@@somewhereinspace2166 your sister didn't have those kids alone.

[@chinaarlene7035]

​@Michelle.1952 they always want to blame the woman, especially if she's Black.

[@Missy-Missy1111]

Everyone is one debilitated illness or injury away from being disabled. The unfortunate question is, if this happens, how will you support yourself?

[@JamesBighouse-ek1bt]

We Americans must start helping each other out. If we see someone that is struggling with illness, injuries ,or financial hardships, then we should sneek some money underneath their doors. If they don't know who helped them, then they can't be too proud to reject the help ,or try to pay it back. Hopefully ,their financial hardships will change, and they will eventually succeed in their lives. We all face unfairness in life ,and some of us never get a break.

[@christineschmidt1025]

True, I never thought in a million years I’d have two artificial hips and metalosis from one. It changes your body because you have challenges beyond the obvious. No one should take their healthy limbs for granted. It’s definitely a move it or lose it life. So happy she got assistance ❤️💙🩵

[@loggcabin2434]

So sorry that the first lady was taken, the should have help the mother get food

[@lc6636]

It sounds like the mother never got it together.

[@dioniciotorres4290]

I grew up in foster care. I'm in a wheelchair. I've lived on the streets in a wheelchair. I've never had a car. If I can make it anybody can. You just have to find help, it's out there, I know...😊😊

[@Michelle.1952]

Can you name or cite actual resources? If not then...

[@2HootHoot]

So happy to hear you made it!

[@lytonyarice1556]

Wow good for U. Now like right now can U please show some compassion for those still struggling 😊

[@emilyfeagin2673]

@Michelle.1952 Resources differ from state to state PA has county assistance offices Religious organizations sone times provide resources too. But don’t go to the fancy mainline churches. Go to the store front churches

[@hazelbasil6451]

Resources vary from state to state, so the resources that you managed to find may not be accessable to many in other areas. Additionally, please be careful when you use your own anecdotal story as some type of evidence because it can come across as dismissive of a huge issue people across the US are dealing with.

[@Darci3333]

It is sad that today so many of us in this so called land of plenty are struggling with hunger, homelessness and poverty yet this country sends billions to help other countries. Its not that we should not help others, but you should help those here at home first and foremost....thats NOT happening 😢

[@deborahrohl848]

I agree with your comment the same thing is happening in Australia 😢

[@alizehustle9385]

Agreed

[@annabarr1304]

America sends money to "help" abroad for their own interests. To keep certain people and regimes in place that allow them to get certain resources. What we need is to stop bailing out wall street and help people like Love instead.

[@ryan3716]

Great story! I’m praying this young lady continues to more forward.

[@silvercat6425]

Heavenly father I'm thankful of what you have given me and know I'm ask to help those who are in need....you did it for me and I know you can do it for them...amen

[@mrm1268]

Alleluia and Amen .

[@ShutterSpeedGaming]

Amen 🙏🏾

[@Franaflyby]

To the lady who was at the first of the story that was placed in foster care just to age out and be homeless 😢 You are awesome, and God has plans for your future. Plans to prosper and not to harm you. Blessings sister. 🪽

[@ronaldharris53]

I pray for everyone that is going through the struggle ❤🙏

[@YourSecretIsSafeWithMe]

“I don’t want you here. I just want your money.”-🤯🤯🤯

[@dmpi483]

Maybe it says more about her than the roommate.

[@diamondjack-cooper5322]

That is so cruel to say to someone!

[@back2the80s]

@@dmpi483victim blaming?

[@dmpi483]

@@back2the80s- You can't fix what you can't or won't acknowledge.

[@carolperdue7534]

@@dmpi483 You have someone paying rent to live in your home but you won't let them use the kitchen or refrigerator. So yeah, they didn't want her there they just wanted the money. That says a lot about them too.

[@CC-pu6qn]

I’m glad she still has a smile on her face. I moved to the suburban area of Richmond and it’s low key racist, people in power are slow. The social climate is poor, but I wish all these women heal and thrive.

[@pattiannepascual]

if you don't like where you live,move. And thank God every day for even having a home. Many of us don't.

[@back2the80s]

@@pattiannepascualpay our moving costs to move

[@22lyric]

Sickening that we give so much to do many unvetted illegal immigrants when we have American citizens that need help. We meed to do more on schools with preparing kids for jobs and not having kids they can't take vare of

[@debbieframpton3857]

We need to help everybody

[@meggrotte4760]

No, we don't.We should help our own people first Once our internal problems are solved when we can help others

[@BusArch42]

Well said.

[@danasmith6043]

Bless her.🙏🙏🙏

[@KatrinaWall-qq2qm]

I pray for her. I hope she can get some better shoes for her feet. Love seems like a nice person. Good luck to her and God Bless.

[@Invertmini1212]

My mom raised 4 boys by herself and we always struggled financially... Its something i would never wish upon anyone. People dont understand when you're poor and barely making it to pay your bills its much harder to upgrade your life. Its a constant weight that you cannot lift without help from others.. most people are one mishap from being homeless or turning their situation from bad to worse.

[@tina8796]

Having more than one or two children leads most people down the road to poverty. We were raised poor and that is why I chose NOT to have any. I didn't like that lifestyle and I decided I was putting a stop to the vicious cycle of having kids you can't afford. We existed and that was it. A daily struggle and living in an old hovel. I have a nice life now. Nice home, nice car, vacations, etc.; a life I never knew even existed when I was growing up. I look back now and realize how awful it truly was.

[@DianeLowery-ct6tg]

I'm a senior living on Social Security alone. I've always struggled financially. And what's difficult for me more than anything else is not the struggle as much as it's the harsh judgment l endure not only from strangers but my family who are doing well. I consider myself financially challenged instead of poor. Wording is everything.

[@tina8796]

@@DianeLowery-ct6tg Unfortunately, you're more at risk for abuse when you're poor. People think they can do whatever they want and you are powerless to do anything about it. It really does leave you vulnerable

[@loisaustin6200]

There is so much sadness and pain and suffering in this world. I never thought it would ever get this bad in America, but here it is staring us in the face. I never saw it coming so quickly and affecting people of all races and ages. We need God's help and strong arm to get through what is only going to keep getting worse for those of us not in the 1%. My heart hurts when I see young girls going through what Love had to go through, with so many bad breaks and strikes against her from such a young age. I hope she has a better life from here on and that she married a good man who will help her and be there for her.

[@georgewagner7787]

It was always tough in America except between 1950 and now. My dad had no food as a child. Unemployment was 25 % during the Depression

[@cyndig7229]

I was a Foster Parent and was HORRIFIED over the evil of the CPS system and callousness of ALL the caseworkers who were NOT trying to get the kids back to their parents. It made me SICK!!! KIDS are STOLEN from their parents into the abusive system. It is a MONEY maker for these CPS workers and they GIVE taxpayers money to their FRIENDS/therapists etc....all at the expense of these foster kids. My foster kids were TIRED of all THESE gov workers...etc...all making MONEY off of them and just BOTHERING them and NOT helping them at all!!! STOP CPS!!! I QUIT!!! I just cried and cried over the injustice of the American CPS against these kids. I ONLY work with organizations SUPPORTING kids and parents. GOd is FOR THE FAMILY. The DEVIL is against the family!!! Pick your battles.

[@igottaspeak]

Over 20 years as a foster care provider. Many of the young girls we had in our homes had a good outcome. The love, encouragement and willingness to listen to them as they go through this process can make all the different in the world as to how well they do exiting the fostering system. My state of Minnesota does provide for continuing care after aging out.

[@suen5006]

Thank you for giving them a good home. Sadly so many don't have good experiences.

[@snuff2023]

And yet our country is concerned about everyone else starving. I wish no one anywhere had to deal with this but we need to worry about the people here in america

[@isay207]

Shes got enough money for lots of food

[@Treemonieee]

@@isay207Unhealthy processed food..

[@afrinaut3094]

America doesn’t help other countries. We literally destabilize other countries all the time especially in Africa & South America. So that lobbyists-controlled White House can exploit poc-nations with sweatshop labor wages and steal their natural resources. The United States and the CIA have installed puppet leaders in other countries, the US destabilizes so they can have one sided capitalist deals. America and France destroyed and punished Haiti (a powerful ex slave black nation. I’m sorry to tell you this, but America ain’t feeding anybody, it is exploiting everybody not just “legal” Americans. Especially as AfricanAmericans this nation has never been loyal to us, but quick to exploit us & destroy us.

[@snuff2023]

@@isay207 cuz shes heavy? I know a person who eats much healthier than I do and they have at least 100lbs on me. Not every large person eats junk or even eats a lot of food. Some ppl have hormone issues where they have to take meds to keep the weight under control. If the meds are making them feel terrible and they don't take them, they get bigger. Just saying not every large person is a gross over eater. Unfortunately healthier foods are still expensive and often don't have as long a shelf life (like fresh fruits and veggies).

[@snuff2023]

And if you would bother to watch the video she has lived places that don't let you put stuff in the fridge or use the oven. I had a roommate like that. I wasnt allowed to cook anything unless they were home and it had to be what they felt like making. It was their place and they weren't charging me rent as I was paying for a phone and car, internet for everyone there and some food, plus saving. Whether you want to believe it or not some ppl who lend you a hand aren't helping as much as they could (letting you use kitchen laundry etc) but at the same time they don't have to so you gotta deal with it til u move on

[@Nowthatswhaticallsedona]

4:54 WHOOOOOO! Got chills. My boy is preaching. Don’t forget it ya’ll.

[@marierodriguez9912]

The struggle and obstacles are so real!! Some people are so naive to what some people truly face when they're in the system, have no family, wasnt born into generational wealth, homelessness, etc. So, count your blessings for everything you have!!

[@mikea2138]

God blessed her

[@cjhoward409]

I was a foster mom and loved all the kids that came into our home. We had kids that had parents who abused them, had drug habits, and one sibling group who were severely malnourished. Such sad situations. And I hate hearing about someone having a bad foster family experience. It’s heart breaking. Our home and many others I knew were very loving.

[@danielleallenyoung7992]

Struggling is not fun. Humility and kindness goes a long way. Everyone needs support ❤

[@cordelia0704]

This breaks my heart in a million different ways. No one should ever have to live like this while others have so much resources that they squander.

[@jessicasmith5728]

What I don't understand is why didn't they decide to help Love Dixon's mother if she was just struggling to make ends meet and provide for her children? It doesn't seem like her mother was abusing her or her sister. The fact that some people get their children taken away from them just for being in poverty is unfair itself. These families should be assigned a social worker who can direct them to social programs and maybe help them get into a work program to get back on their feet. Because someone probably lied about Love's mother, she had to go through foster care and being abused and mistreated by foster parents, roommates and random strangers from childhood to adulthood. She was given a tough way to go early on in life when her mother's situation could've been helped. It's good that she's doing better now. It's just a shame she had to suffer because of the system.

[@animiteva6122]

Exactly!

[@Kinikia95]

I wonder if there's not more to the story. Maybe mom had some other struggles.

[@jessicasmith5728]

@@Kinikia95 No one knows for sure. Love never mentioned her mom having any other struggles such as mental illness for example other than her mom struggling to provide for her and her sister. No low income single parent should have their kids taken away if they're just struggling to make ends meet. They should be helped and given resources.

[@villainous1142]

I hope the state of Virginia does more for their foster youth leaving the system. Teach them financial literacy and create group homes next to colleges campuses so that they can be close to schools.

[@lc6636]

Parents need to teach them. Why do people tell the government to do their job?

[@bookmagicroe9553]

@@lc6636 : The person above named villainous was referring to foster kids. Foster kids are wards of the state, and therefore, are dependent on the government for care.

[@missmaryjanegreen]

How are they supposed to PAY for college? This problem is much deeper than you are mansplaining it.

[@texasgoddess323]

The government pays for college for foster children. Unfortunately, many of them, like Love, have no family and social support network, and drop out because of it. There are so many things that they lack, which make it difficult to matriculate in a school environment.

[@lindsayschutz]

@@texasgoddess323 yeah, like access to their parent’s tax returns so they can file for financial aid. Technically there is an option in the FAFSA where you can indicate that you were a foster kid and can’t provide your parent’s financial information, but they give you a crap ton of grief about that, so most just wait until they turn 26 because that’s when they’re considered an “Independent Student” and aren’t required to provide that information.

[@EclecticEndeavorsbyDemi]

Good for her.

[@robertamorris4313]

❤praying for these folks

[@leafrazer8440]

I dealt with serious health issues ended up on dialysis which caused me to stop working and go on disability. That's when my hardship began. I fought really hard for my life received a transplant after 5 years of waiting on the list. I wanted to live so badly, I became pro active with my health. It was so hard but, I didn't give up even though I kept crying a lot because It seemed the hardship would never end. I ended up going back to work even though I dealt with more health issues which put me in the hospital. I still didn't give up straight out my credit and started receiving credit cards. I have my own apartment and a new car. I love helping people who are dealing with hardship.

[@dhowto3005]

Mrs. Dixon, thanks for sharing your story. I wish you and your family well. Thanks to all the people, volunteers, and organization that help people in need. You're doing great work. Thanks for creating this video.

[@paulbrungardt9823]

In the 1960's --The Federal Government started its war on the Black family--Welfare gave financial incentive for the destruction of the nuclear family.

[@user-iq3th6ff6q]

Preach, bless her for telling her story and not giving up.

[@ursulatroxler7428]

I’m praying for everyone reading this . Say this prayer you are valuable, beautiful, worthy of love and kindness. Jehovah God and His Son Christ Jesus are with you. The power of God is with you! Amen ❤

[@marywatkins6798]

Excellent report. All the best to these people.

[@thankthelord4536]

I pray 🙏🏾always for those in need.

[@mosimosi630]

I’m so happy she’s in a nice home may God bless her

[@ratso4443]

My grandparents raised 6 kids during the Depression. I am full of admiration for people getting up and struggling forward each day. God bless.

[@JoySpirit888]

God's blessings to all Amen 🍀🤗💜💛💚💚💛

[@jackiecolbert3915]

Thank you for sharing this story. Definitely sad world we live in. I'm what you consider the working poor. But I thank God for my place and life. God bless those ladies that shared their story.

[@keepkaren]

I love Ms Love's smile, but mostly her tenacity. Wow, so much has happened to this young life. Good luck to you dear.

[@kikis488]

Regarding the first woman: Evil person took advantage of her mother's poverty to harm a family to satisfy their own entitlement. The further disgusting part is this person who exploited this family probably went on with their ***life*** and never gave it a second thought. No one lives forever and everyone has to pay. Being poor puts you in a position of other people having the upper hand where others get to exert their will on you.

[@hestiaa9354]

Many of us are just an accident, or illness, or loss of a job away from falling into poverty. It’s frightening to imagine so I don’t judge because there but by grace…

[@roxiesorrells4552]

God bless you praying for God to place his loving and comforting arms around you. Thank you for sharing!

[@WomensTop20]

Absolutely, Love. You are a person and every person deserves to be treated with dignity. Thank you all for sharing your stories. You're so much stronger than people who have everything. Remember that!

[@herbertrodriguez9236]

I've been clean for 27 years and the one thing I draw inspiration from was the fact that I never have up on my conquest of getting better. Being one paycheck away from homelessness scared me straight by never looking back.

[@charmainepriestman915]

These beautiful ladies are so courageous to share their stories. Never give up. You are worthy and deserve to live a beautiful life. We as fellow citizens need to stop judging and reach out the hand of friendship and support each other. Thank you to all who help the vulnerable ❤

[@angieanderson7792]

I'm so glad they are getting into better situations. The Church was doing some really good work too. God Bless them ❤

[@user-nb5kp1mw2q]

Walk by Faith not by sight

[@georginafraser451]

I can't believe what these people went through, I wish I could help in some way, but I live in south America, Argentina, a bit too far, but I'm praying everyday for these people I don't even know but love them just like God does, God bless u all.

[@Estherbethe1...]

Having to pay more to accept less... Former foster youth, disabled, no support, 15 years of medical gaslighting, improper diagnosis, renting a slum w mold n leaks, constantly sick n stressed, getting ripped of at the mechanic shop... I'm tired and angry.

[@joycewright5386]

I’m so sorry.

[@lindacathcart7414]

One day at a time, and sometimes it gets so hard that you have to just go somewhere and cry. You thank God for getting you through the first half of a day. And pray for his help to get you through the rest of the day, because tomorrow is a luxury you can't entertain!!

[@LeedleLee457]

2:28 My family has been going to food banks since I was a kid. The system has drastically changed over the years. Back in the early 2000's, you could just show up, wait in line, and get food. NOT ANYMORE. You have to register beforehand, have an account, they assign you a number, etc. The food banks keep track of how many times you can attend (usually limiting it to 2x per month), and you have to set up appointments online weeks in advance. It's RIDICULOUS how strict they are now. My family has no problems with it, but a lot of families in need are not equipped to handle the amount of paperwork and regulations that are demanded. They've essentially barred homeless people from entering food banks thanks to the need for online appointments in advance.

[@bvbocan1]

The darkness of drug addiction didn't "descend" upon her -- she made a conscious decision to use drugs.

[@whitneybrown4067]

Blessings💜🙏….

[@Feed-My-Mind-Not-My-Ego]

After working in Property Management for a LIHTC program, I greatly despise the government. It's upsetting to know the majority of these programs cater to the greedy government while pretending to help those in need. Anyone who is renting, please do your due diligence and take advantage of the many homebuying programs available to you and encourage your children to become homeowners. The government gets rich off of those in poverty. Read between the lines with my last sentence and let that sink in.

[@user-eu3qy8uf7f]

This is true. Many folks who go through these programs get it subliminally that they are being used. Many are victimized by non profits whose executives live off of huge grants.

[@TheSamjane4]

People in poverty can barely pay their rent. They don’t have savings to be buying homes and they usually don’t allow single people to get loans 😂

[@user-eu3qy8uf7f]

@@TheSamjane4 True. Many folks got in trouble years ago when WAMU bank had such a program for poor and lower middle-class folks could buy homes. It turned into a HUGE disaster when the bubble burst,and most could not keep paying.

[@jn11b8]

God bless them, takes a lot of strength pulling yourself out of poverty, debt, wage slaving like falling in quick sand and you sink further and further if you dont make the right choices and the right luck when you find yourself slipping. Getting hit with interest fees on late payments, penalties, just everything starts falling apart and you fall deeper and deeper in debt until you lose it all

[@ScottGonzalez-yl6ze]

I'm 55 years and I retired at 51. I was able to do this because I understand four pricinciples of financial planning success think long term with goals and investing, spend less than you earn maintain liquidity (an emergency savings) minimize the use of debt

[@BrendaWong-yr2tf]

Success depends on the actions or steps you take to achieve it. Building wealth involves developing good habits, such as regularly setting aside money for sound investment...

[@_eaturveggies01]

Thank you for this mini-doc. I like these need to be told more often ❤.

[@terri348]

So I have lived in abject poverty, and I never forgot the survival lessons I learned. Even now, when things are better, I still debate each and every grocery item and necessary purchase. Yet, I am blessed.

[@katiedid1851]

Hope Thank you for this video.

[@mmp495]

My heart goes out to people such as this woman who is trying everyday to make it despite all her road blocks.❤❤❤

[@jasintamoore3372]

Thank you for this excellent program

[@esmiel1833]

Precious Lord, please help the less fortunate. Provide for your children. Jehovah Jirh,God our provider.

[@LV-jh4zt]

God bless 🙌 these beautiful people. 🙏

[@afrinaut3094]

AfricanAmericans & the entire African Racially Enslaved Diaspora are suffering due to generations of weaponized poverty. Redlining, hiring/career advancement discrimination, centuries of labor exploitation etc. US Corporate greed is the reason the cost of living, being able to live/relax-work life balance, & having a future only exists for the upper-classes

[@JohnnyJackson746]

How do you explain generational poverty and im white

[@justdelightful8338]

I so glad they have survived and live to tell their story and I pray they all continue to overcome! And get the resources they need to help them.

[@brendashort3294]

Good to see both Ladies got the help they needed. With the rise of Inflation that makes it even harder to obtain the basic things like Place to stay, Food, reliable Transportation, Health Insurance, Life Insurance or Anything you need to make it thru Life. Thanks for sharing two women stories. Have a Blessed Day!!! 👍👍👍♥️♥️♥️🙏🙏🙏💯

[@dianevetter4260]

God bless this sweet lady .

[@tina8796]

Having children and home ownership's becoming unattainable / unsustainable. I don't have any children and I am by no means rich. I'll be lucky to take care of myself in retirement. I'm very saving and my husband has a good, stable job but still ! It's just expensive to have a home, car, healthcare, etc. The inflation rate right now is unsustainable for many people. This young lady seems to be a sweet soul. I am so sorry she's had this type of life. I pray she stays healthy and has a home and is able to keep her beloved cat. ✝✝

[@Eileen49654]

To the second lady, your a beautiful butterfly 🦋. So happy for you that you beat addiction and have a place to live, and a job. May angels minister to you daily.

[@lloydanderson3733]

My siblings four of them and I were taken away from our parents over a family squabble every one of us have gone through every form of abuse you could possibly think of so I am a survivor and so are you

[@virtualadministrativeresou7888]

People can be so cruel!!😕 Why not just help the mother get groceries instead of reporting her to cps?! 🥺

[@sandrageiler3577]

What a lovely young woman, she's a good person. Keep on doing this, and stay strong. You can be so proud of yourself.

[@user-qj4nq6ky9c]

I ended my foster care when I jumped ship and became a merchant marine. I was a teenager at the time. I am not going to get into the details. But with the help of some folks I met along the way the abusers got their candle blown out.

[@mandadick7093]

I'm well below the poverty line. I'm disabled and my monthly disability payment is $1300 per month, which is supposed to cover all my expenses including rent, utilities, food etc. Living this way is hard, particularly since I was working a high paying job prior to my illness. However, I'm incredibly thankful for the things that I do have, like a comfortable place to live. I'm also grateful that being poor has taught me resilience and ingenuity that I was previously lacking. Unfortunately, our society is ill equipped to help it's most vulnerable people.

[@royharper2003]

On the plus side you are very beautiful

[@suen5006]

You are lucky the rent has risen above your income, which I see in our area so often. So many disabled elders are homeless because disability is more than the rent and there are very few Section 8 vouchers. I hope you are able to maintain your housing, good luck.

[@zhaw4821]

Why didn't you save when you worked the high paying job?

[@mandadick7093]

@zhaw4821 I did. I had to use that money for living expenses while I was awaiting the outcome of my disability application. It took two years for my application to be processed. Our social assistance programs are backlogged, partially because of covid and partially due to a lack of funding.

[@mandadick7093]

@suen5006 thank you ❤️ I live in Canada, so we don't have section 8 here. We do have public housing programs, but the wait time is about 5-7 years. This apartment is rent controlled, so I should be OK as long as I stay put. However, there are a lot of landlords who are evicting tenants under false pretenses so they can re list the apartments for more money.

[@annfoster6116]

We need to hear more from people who are struggling so we can help !!

[@Yourcomputertutordotnet]

The true cost of poverty , is the people who can prevent it yet do nothing

[@girlanonymous]

Poverty kills people too not just through crime but through chronic disease. Having to work crazy hours at all times a day 7 days a week wears you out physically…Poverty is an endless battle for many. God Bless all who are out there doing the best they can to stay afloat. Don’t give up. 🙏🏽 ♥️

[@t.h.8475]

Aging out of foster care is a nightmare. It's a terrible system.