International Contact (Poverty)

I am so grateful to have established a contact that is more than willing to communicate with me on a regular basis. His name is Ramon, and although he was born in the United States of America he has lived in Paris, France all of his life. Currently he works in a creches which seems to be like a child care center. They care for children from 3months to school age. The creches has strict rules and all the minders/caregivers must have a childcare diploma. This is a private school, so the parents pay all the fees. Ramon stated that there is no poverty at his school, and the children's parents are "rich business people." However, Ramon does experience poverty in Paris, France. Since the rent is too expensive by his school, he lives in another part of the city where families experience poverty. The children go to a school funded by the government.

Ramon said that he has worked with families in rural areas in France who needed help with school fees and supplies. He mentioned that there are many good groups in France that help children so they won't fall behind on their studies. Ramon has also seen how poverty affects children in other countries. He took a trip to Africa and was saddened by the lack of food and money for families. He noticed that the last thing on their minds was education, and he worries about their future.

Ramon is on vacation here in the United States until May. He is staying with his parents in Ohio. I asked him is he is surprised by the amount of poverty in the U.S. because of the wealthy image that the country has around the world. He said that he is very much surprised to see children playing in dirt as he passes along the streets of Ohio. It reminds him of a third world country. Ramon's parents have told him about the poverty issues in America, but he thought they were exaggerating. He said he never knew America has issues with poverty.

After my conversation with Ramon and this week's studies, I realize that poverty is an issues that is present everywhere. I am committed to dealing with this issue by providing resources to families in my area. Everyone can make a difference right where they are.