- Poverty is a social evil present in all nations, be they developed, developing, or underdeveloped. While the differences between the rich and the poor are not so glaring in the developing or underdeveloped countries, it is not so in the developed countries. There exists a line which distinguishes one class from the other. As the common knowledge goes, "the rich get richer and the poor get poorer." Helping the poor and trying to uplift them in society is the duty of every civil minded citizen. Food, shelter, health and sanitation, clothes, and education are a few basic things which the poor lack, apart from money.
- The best way to help the poor is by offering them a free meal. Many private corporations have made this a part of their program. Hunger and malnutrition are detrimental to the well being of any society. Free camps can be organized where the poor can be fed. The food need not be scrumptious, but should be edible. These food camps need not be offered daily, but at least once a week or probably even a month, if it is difficult to host. There should be steps taken to make sure that many organizations and socialites participate in these events voluntarily. With some steady inflow of money, these camps can then be regionalized and then expanded.
- The next basic necessity is education. There is an old saying: "give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish, and you feed him for life." This should be aptly used and understood by everyone. Instead of actually denying education to the poor, teach them some methods to earn money. Though they cannot become millionaires overnight, they can at least be assured of a day's food. Some vocational training institutes can be opened where they can be taught to make a living. Teach some paltry job, but make sure that it is worthwhile. There are centers where education can be sponsored for deserving individuals.
- Man has always sought shelter ever since he was created. Be it the caves, trees, condos, bungalows, shacks, or even railway yards, man has always managed to find a spot for himself in the world. Open homes where poor people can sleep. There are lots of empty, unused places which can be contracted out to builders. They can instead make cheap homes for the poor to stay. Huge complexes of apartments can be constructed and then leased out to the poor. Money is required for all of these, and such ideas can be implemented once the money is collected from the sponsors.
- Health and sanitation is expensive. So is medical insurance. It is very obvious that the poor cannot afford it. The best way to solve this issue is by arranging free health camps. Doctors and physicians with experience can be invited to treat the poor. Free monthly checkups can be provided by these doctors and if possible some remedy for ailments as well.
- Last but not least, old clothes can be collected and given to the poor instead of burning or dumping them. Clothes can be collected every month and can be offered to the slums or other poor parts of a community. Places like Goodwill and the Salvation Army open their doors to the needy on a regular basis, and you might even consider helping out at one of these centers.
