Getting By or Getting Ahead? Public Policies to Help the Poor Build and Protect Assets

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Creating and building financial assets are key to moving the poor from welfare and low-wage employment to economic success. Shortsighted policies (welfare reform and those that discourage access to banks, savings, and protection from predatory lenders) stand in the way of the poor in building assets. A new Congress and presidential administration can work to advance policies that help the poor overcome barriers, build assets, and move out of poverty into a secure economic future.

By Dory Rand and Brian Clappier From November-December 2008 Clearinghouse Review