PAVIA – In 2023, a Pavia, poverty has become a structural phenomenon that affects one in 10 people. There were 1,138 families who needed food aid from the diocesan Caritas, for a total of 547 people. Among these, 205 are children and adolescents, 320 adults between 17 and 64 years old and 26 elderly people over 65. Dramatically growing numbers, which highlight a picture of alarming hardship.
Inflation hits the most fragile families
The increase in prices and inflation have worsened the situation of the most disadvantaged families. According to the Caritas Resources and Poverty Observatory, the average monthly expenditure of Italian families grew by 3.9% in 2023, reaching 2,728 euros. However, for less wealthy families the increase was even heavier, standing at 4.5%. This is because inflation weighs more heavily on the spending of poorer families, who dedicate a greater share of their income to primary goods.
Absolute poverty on the rise
In Italy, absolute poverty affects 8.5% of families, approximately 5.7 million people. A worrying fact that highlights how social hardship is spreading more and more. Among the new poor there are also those who can no longer make ends meet and are forced to ask for help for the first time.
Caritas on the front line against poverty
Pavia diocesan Caritas is on the front line in the fight against poverty. In 2023, the Food area offered support to 1,138 families, distributing food parcels and cards for the purchase of food. Furthermore, for people unable to go to the Caritas headquarters, a home delivery service has been activated which reaches 36 people. To combat social hardship, Caritas collaborates with a network of local bodies and institutions, including the Municipality, Civil Protection, parishes and third sector bodies. Together, they are working to offer concrete support to families in difficulty and to promote policies to combat poverty.
