SAFETY NET PROGRAMS CUT POVERTY RATE

Safety net programs like SNAP, Social Security, rent subsidies, and the Earned Income Tax Credit cut the poverty rate nearly in half in 2013, lifting 39 million people — including more than 8 million children — out of poverty.  Such government assistance programs and tax credits cut the poverty rate for 2013 from the official 28.1% rate (which doesn’t’ count such aid) to 15.5%. Safety net programs cut the poverty rate for children from 27.5% to 16.4%.  

Source: Center for Budget and Policy Priorities, 10/16/14, Safety Net