This is a public service announcement and is used to help anyone who is experiencing severe hardship in Missouri.
“Poverty is the worst form of violence.“
-Mahatma Ghandi
January is Poverty in America Awareness Month, a month-long initiative to raise awareness and call attention to the growth of poverty. Missouri is the 27th poorest state in the USA, with a poverty rate of 12.10%. Poverty is shown to influence health outcomes, with unmet social needs, environmental factors, and barriers to accessing health care contributing to worse health outcomes for people with lower incomes. Those who qualify as impoverished may have more difficulty obtaining health insurance or paying for expensive procedures and medications. Children comprise the largest age group experiencing poverty and childhood poverty is associated with developmental delays, toxic stress, chronic illness, and nutritional deficits. What is the SkillUP Program? SkillUP is a free program that helps SNAP (Food Stamp) recipients get help with skills, training, and employer connections to get a job (or a better job). A SkillUP job coach will work with you to create an individual plan to help you reach your goals and start a new career. The SkillUP program can also help you: Pay for short-term training and certifications Create or update your resume Decide on your goals and a career pathway Get real work experience Connect you with employers Connect with resources such as childcare and housing assistance Buy clothing, books, supplies, or tools required for training or a job Pay for minor car repairs to help you get to training or work The SkillUP Program is funded by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food and Nutrition Service (FNS).  The program is also funded through the Administration for Children and Families, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families block grant. How do I get started? SkillUP is offered free of cost through several agencies across Missouri. Find a provider near you to get started today! If you or know of someone who needs to learn a new trade, needs food or housing, contact Skill Up, a division of https://mydss.mo.gov/skillup-program Thumbnail image by Glenn Carstens-Peters More: The Argus Online is always here to help the community live better. |
