Poverty

It's been about six months since a new, controversial state law banning unauthorized camping or sleeping on public or private properties went into full effect. But just how effective the law has been at curbing homelessness is uncertain – it depends on who you ask.

Under the new measure in Florida that takes effect Tuesday, Oct. 1, police officers will be empowered to issue fines, make arrests and forcibly remove those found camping or congregating in public spaces.

The rise in ALICE households — "Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed" — climbed to more than 346,000 households in 2021, up from about 328,000 in 2019. The COVID−19 pandemic started in March 2020.

Across the country, corporate investors are buying up mobile homes parks and raising the rents — including after hurricanes. At a hard-hit trailer park in Naples, some residents are worried their landlord could try to take advantage of the storm and force them out.

More than a week after Hurricane Ian slammed into Southwest Florida, hundreds of people are still living in storm shelters in hard-hit Lee County. Some who lost their homes say they don't know where they'll live next. WLRN's Kate Payne, on assignment for sister station WGCU, reports.

Thousands of workers in South Florida's public schools are getting a raise — after state lawmakers mandated that they be paid at least $15 an hour.

Child poverty is at a historic low, according to Census bureau data, and the rate of those without health insurance dropped in 2021. But the good news may be short-lived, as policy measures expire.

A blockbuster new study reveals a key factor explaining rates of upward mobility.

The skyrocketing cost of housing in South Florida is forcing many residents to leave their homes — or stay in unsafe conditions. At a recent event, Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava heard directly from parents and social service providers about the housing affordability crisis.

Advocates have long pushed for school meals to be free for all students — regardless of family income. When the pandemic hit, Congress made it happen. But now, federal aid for the school meal program is running out. In the fall, many school across the country will once again have to charge kids to eat.

More than two years into the pandemic, many South Florida families are still struggling to afford to feed their kids. This summer, hundreds of schools and libraries are hosting meal sites where students can eat for free.

School supplies cost an average of $850 during the 2021-2022 school year — an amount that's totally out of reach for many. Now qualifying families in Palm Beach County can sign up to get help with school supplies at an upcoming giveaway event.