So this is basically what you’re going to see in mostly every corner store: food stamps and lottery. Perfect, huh? Great combination, food stamps and lottery. The lottery gives the poor people dreams to win something that they’re probably never going to win. Giving your money away to try to have that one chance out of a billion.
Micro-lending
Many of the women of Witnesses are entrepreneurs who run informal businesses (i.e. hair/makeup business, catering, childcare) to make ends meet. With so few job opportunities available, turning this informal work into legitimate businesses is an important strategy for families trying to escape economic insecurity. Though the idea of offering micro-loans to help low-income women start income-generating business started in the developing world, its popularity has grown in the U.S.
Current Issue
While several organizations in Philadelphia offer micro-loans to middle and lower-income entrepreneurs, those living in deep poverty - as TANF recipients are - often get left out of these business financing opportunities. Philadelphia could offer micro-loans and discounted business licenses to low-income individuals who want to join the formal economy.
Useful Links and Reports
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Drexel University Public School of Health 
1505 Race Street, 11th Floor, Mail Stop 1035, Philadelphia, PA 19102