Poverty vs Recession

The effects of the current ‘global recession’ are far reaching and inescapable. Without doubt ever increasing fuel prices are changing the cost of living; especially in regards to food. Again though, let’s not forget there is a major difference between a recession in the western world and 3rd world poverty.

World Vision in their Spring 2008 newsletter contrasts the impact of a ‘global recession’ on food prices for New Zealanders verse those living in developing nations.

In New Zealand…

- Food prices have risen by 8.2% in the last 12 months.
- Dairy foods, including cheese, milk and butter, are the main contributors to the price rise.
- Many families are cutting back on luxury items
- The average family income in 2007 was $67,993. Most households are spending 16% of their income on food ($10,878.88).

In developing nations…

- Food prices have risen by 100-200% in the last 12 months.
- Staple foods, including rice, grains and cereals, are the main contributors to the price rise. For many people meat, fruit and vegetables are either not available to buy or unaffordable.
- The average family survives on less than $730 a year and spends $511 of their income on staple foods. Some families are now spending their entire income on food and still don’t have enough to meet their basic nutritional needs.

Please don’t forget; a recession is not a famine and it is not poverty. we are blessed to be a blessing. Nobody can do anything but we can all do something. There are plenty of outlets through which you can give and make a difference in the life of someone who has nothing. Make sure you do what you can.