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California's High Poverty Rates Continue To Lead The Nation
A sign reading "Housing is a Human Right, and House the Homeless" is placed on a fence near a tent housing the homeless near the Honda Center in Anaheim, California on January 23, 2018.
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California's High Poverty Rates Continue To Lead The Nation
By some measures, California is the wealthiest state in the country. But new Census data released Tuesday shows the state continuing to lead the nation in poverty. When the state’s high cost of living is taken into consideration, 18.2% of Californians live in poverty.
California may have a booming tech industry, an economy larger than the United Kingdom’s and more billionaires than any other state. But soaring rents and stagnant wages for low-income workers continue to keep California's poverty rate high.
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But the game has changed: Congress voted to eliminate funding for public media across the country. Here at LAist that means a loss of $1.7 million in our budget every year. We want to assure you that despite growing threats to free press and free speech, LAist will remain a voice you know and trust. Speaking frankly, the amount of reader support we receive will help determine how strong of a newsroom we are going forward to cover the important news in our community.
We’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission.
Thank you for your generous support and belief in the value of independent news.
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