Approximately 651,000 Virginians, including 241,000 children, live in poverty. Each of these individuals has a unique personal history - and their own designs for a more stable future. The invisibility of poverty in many communities is persistent, although our interactions with people living below the poverty line are fairly constant (this includes the workplace, for it is a myth that poor people do not work). The SBSS is committed to bringing greater awareness to poverty's impact on our Commonwealth. The SBSS believes that the personal story of the individual who is struggling to gain or maintain baseline financial stability is critical to the understanding of this issue. Please become an agent for poverty awareness and positive change: SBSS poverty awareness podcasts:   High gas prices take toll on working poor   Public transportation is critical for the working poor   Lack of transportation in rural areas can make it hard to get and keep a job   Free tax preparation available for the working poor   Some eligible Virginians don't take advantage of major tax credit available   Who does the Earned Income Tax Credit help and how?   What is the Earned Income Tax Credit and who qualifies?   Volunteers needed to help the working poor with tax preparation   How you can help hard-working families   Domestic Violence is a Leading Cause of Homelessness Learn more about the programs and services that VDSS, local departments of social services and community partners provide as important resources for self-sufficiency. Check out the Self-Sufficiency Standard Report which lists how much money is required "just to get by" in different cities and counties in Virginia. Contact the State Board of Social Services with your questions and ideas.