These quick exercises provide an opportunity for students to interact with the local community and to continue research of topics discussed throughout the chapter. 

1. Investigate the welfare assistance or TANF program in your state. First, determine the name and administrative agency for the program in your state. Most TANF programs are administered by the Department of Health and Social Services or Department of Human Services. Determine what time limits and work requirement provisions have been legislated in your state. What educational activities can count toward work requirements? Are family support services (parent skill training, housing assistance) provided? What is your state’s record on welfare reform? Has welfare reform made a difference for the poor in your state?

2. The United Nations Human Development Report collects available data on poverty rates, defined in several ways, including living below $1.25 a day and the percentage of the nation’s population that lives below the poverty line. Data are available primarily for lesser developed nations. Identify and compare poverty rates for five selected nations.

3. Stanford University established the Center for the Study of Poverty and Inequality in 2006. The center recognizes how universities are obligated to provide leadership on one of the pressing problems of poverty and inequality. The center website includes an inequality quotient quiz. Take a few moments to answer the posted questions and see how well you understand income inequality in the United States.