Poverty

http://www.heritage.org/Research/PoliticalPhilosophy/BG791.cfm

Listing of the economic's of being "poor" in the U.S. Entitlements have given "poor americans" a lot of benefits. It gives a description of the comparisons between American poor and European poor. I am sure that the cost of living in the U.S. accounts for this fluctuation as opposed to some European countries though. This article also details how the Census Bureau doesn' count certain benefits, which the government gives to the poor, because they are, 'non-cash' benefits. Meaning they are benefits, but are not necessarily seen by the receiving person. Article is detailed, but only dissects the governments spending in relation to the poor.