Poverty Advocacy
“Poverty is a problem of the whole human community, not only of those who are poor or vulnerable.” -- ELCA Social Statement Sufficient, Sustainable Livelihood for All
The Bible calls us to recognize poverty as a shared concern and to respond with compassion and justice. Scripture reminds us that caring for those in need is central to living out our faith.
Poverty is more than a lack of income – it often means limited access to basic necessities like food, housing, and healthcare, and it can strip people of dignity and opportunity. In Wisconsin, approximately 11% of residents live below the poverty line, including nearly 13% of children.
Lutherans respond to poverty in many ways: through feeding ministries, community partnerships, and advocacy for systemic change. The Lutheran Office for Public Policy in Wisconsin (LOPPW) works to address the root causes of poverty by advocating for policies that address the complex causes of poverty, relieve the conditions of poverty, and invest in initiatives to reduce poverty.
