Newly released US Census data reveals that more Americans than ever before are living in poverty. The overall poverty rate rose from 14.3 percent in 2009 to 15.1 percent in 2010. Meanwhile, poverty rates for Blacks and Hispanics in the same period rose to 27.4 percent and 26.6 percent, respectively. What does this mean for communities of color and for the overall economic health of the nation? Find out in the Women of Color Policy Network's analysis of the 2010 Census data. The Network's policy brief looks at impact of poverty on American workers and families.

(Above image from the Network's policy brief, Income And Poverty in Communities of Color)

In the first full year following the declaration of the end of the recession, median household income declined for all racial groups. However, while white median household income amounted to $54,620 in 2010, median income levels for Hispanic and Black households were $37,759 and $32,068, respectively. For single mothers, median household income was even lower, especially for single mothers of color. In the graph above, see the breakdown of poverty rates according to family structure and race for families with children.  In the infographic below, see the overall numbers represented in Colorlines' useful visual representation of the 2010 Census income numbers. 

Given that slightly under 7% of Americans now live in deep poverty---defined as half of the poverty line, which is the equivalent of a family of four living on $11,157---America's social safety net must be reinforced to protect all families and build economic resilience. The great disparities in income emphasize the urgency of bold policies that counter racial and gender discrimination in the job market, as well as support training and education of low-income and economically disadvantaged people.

To read the Network's full analysis of the Census Bureau's recently released poverty and income data and view the Network's recommendations for creating pathways out of poverty, click here.