JRLC e-Xpress September 29

Poverty Worsens: Here's the stark picture from the just released ACS Census Data: In 2010, 11.6 percent of Minnesotans lived in poverty, up significantly from 9.5 percent in 2007. This average figure masks much higher rates of poverty within Minnesota’s communities of color. In 2010, 17.8 percent of Asians were living in poverty, as were 24.4 percent of Latinos and 37.2 percent of blacks. Poverty among American Indians increased from 30.7 percent to 39.5 percent. And, alarmingly, 15.2 percent of all children in Minnesota live below the poverty line. Read Brian Rusche's blog post on the matter.

iCAN Needs Sponsors!: Tomorrow is the last day of our iCAN Summer Fundraiser for individual and congregationsl sponsors. Help JRLC's children's network cross the finish line by making a donation today! We are getting close to our goal of $10,000 to support of legislative advocacy for Minnesota children living in poverty and crisis. CLICK HERE TO SPONSOR iCAN TODAY (every donation helps)! Also, Children's Sabbath is coming up! Here are new resources that will help you highlight children's issues in your congregation.

JRLC Seeks Your Input on our 2012 Legislative Goals: JRLC's Board and staff are seeking input into our 2012 Legislative Goals. Next year's goals are currently in draft form and we would be grateful for your ideas and reactions. Also you can take a quick poll on our homepage for an easy way to register your opinion!

2012 Day on the Hill will be Tuesday, March 20, 2012. Mark your calendar! The theme is "And What Does God Require?" (Deuteronomy 10: 12-13, 17-18)

Visit JRLC's improved website for events, media coverage, and regular blog posts by JRLC staff and board members.