“In economic terms, poverty is defined as a lack of income or resources to meet the basic needs of life. In a broader sense, it can be seen as a lack of: opportunities, access, assets, or means to meet physical needs, being able to participate fully in the life of our community, or the inability to fulfill one’s potential and sense of purpose.” (Seeds of Hope Brochure, 2011)
Resources can be defined as:
Financial-having the money to purchase goods and services; however, financial resources are more than just cash. Assets such as credit, property, and equity are also sources of financial resources.
Emotional-being able to choose and control emotional responses, particularly to negative situations without engaging in self-destructive behavior. This is an internal resources and shows itself through stamina, perseverance and choices.
Mental-having the capacity to process information, evaluate a situation, and use prior experience to make decisions in daily living.
Social Capital-having friends, family, backup resources and knowledge bases available to access in times of need. These are external resources.
Role models-having frequent access to appropriate adults who are nurturing and who do not engage in self-destructive behavior (mentors).
