Poverty in Pandemic

William G. Hoy

Baylor University

While we are reading a lot about the illness- and death-toll of the COVID-19 pandemic and the economic upheaval of securities markets, we are seeing comparatively little about the real impact on the poor, and the new poor of this experience. In my personal devotional time this week, I looked again at Psalm 112--a text shared by Jews and Christians but whose principles are timeless and trans-religious. Among other things, this author writes of the person who "respects the Lord" and seeks to live a life of righteousness and justice.

But, it is verse 9 that speaks volumes to me: "They have freely scattered their gifts to the poor, their righteousness endures forever; their horn will be lifted high in honor" (New International Version). There is no promise of "give and get" here that is so often predicted by the so-called prosperity gospel. Instead, the words are a simple declaration of fact: when we give generously, literally "scatter our gifts to the poor," the honor that follows that will be longstanding.

Though ours has never exceeded a middle-income household and Debbie has been a stay-at-home wife and mom for most of our married life, I realize that we live far better off than most Americans and that we are certainly more wealthy than most of the world. That means our job is to "scatter our gifts to the poor." Never before has that seemed more important than right now so here are some of the ways we are doing that. I ask you to offer COMMENTS below on ways you and your family are giving, as well.

Tip generously. The folks who are working in car washes, pizza delivery, and other service occupations already often live on a financial razor's edge. If you can, why not double--or triple--your regular tip? Or, if possible in your budget, just carry a few $ 10 or $ 20 bills to hand to the people who serve you.

Support a "feeding" charity in your community. Meals on Wheels (nationally or locally) and local food banks are already trying to do far more with far less than usual. Consider a one-time, weekly, or monthly donation.

Give your time even when you don't have money. Are there families in your community who need help now that their kids have come home for online education? Yes. Are there ways you can be of help? Absolutely. Offer to use Zoom or other online means to provide some tutoring to families in your community. Ask a teacher you know or call the school district headquarters if you do not know any families in your neighborhood or faith community who could use the extra hands. You can also use one of the online tutoring-pairing systems like Learn to Be or UpChieve to volunteer with under-served kids who can greatly use your skills, energy, passion, and experience.

Remember your faith community. Most faith communities have an online system for giving; even if you can't attend in person, many of the community's programs and expenses continue so why not consider making your online gift now?

Would you do us a favor? Would you join the conversation here and tell others about our blog?