The Current Poverty Level for individuals is set at an abysmally low $11,770 per annum. For families, it is as follows:

15,930 for a family of 2 -- $20,090 for a family of 3 -- $24,250 for a family of 4 -- $28,410 for a family of 5 -- $32,570 for a family of 6

For an individual, this breaks down to approximately $980.33 per month, or $245.20 per week. Many supplementary aid programs, as well as taxation systems, are based upon living below the poverty line. Many of these same programs are denied based upon living above the poverty line. The current levels reflect more than poverty; anyone, or any family, living below these current levels can realistically be said to live in dire poverty. Realistically, many thousands upon thousands of individuals earning income within the range of $14,000 to $16,000 per annum are barely making what could justifiably be termed "a living." The same holds true for families as well, of course. It is far, far, past time to raise the poverty line to at least a somewhat more decent level! Please sign and spread this petition to compassionate friends and family!