America—the world's wealthiest country—is home to over 40 million people living under the poverty line. And for many, there is no safety net to fall back on. Professor Joan Maya Mazelis explains how we got here and highlights one innovative organization, run by and for poor people, that builds community among the poor and provides help when the safety net is missing.

For More on this Topic:

• Check out Mazelis' book, Surviving Poverty: Creating Sustainable Ties among the Poor
• Read her brief, How to Help America's Poor People Build Community and Assist Each Other