Childhood obesity and poverty are two of the most prominent social issues in today's American society. Among families, these two show a strong correlation, with poverty often leading to unhealthy eating habits in children. Many different ideas on how to get ahead of this problem are out there to be considered. But, Dr. Benard Dreyer, says, in a usnews.com article, that the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and other anti-poverty tax policies have lead to signifcant positive changes. The EITC is a tax return for low to middle class working people that varies by income and number of children. Dreyer, a pediatrician, reminds his patients to take advantage of this so that they can provide for the betterment of their children's futures. He makes note of the fact that the EITC helped lift 5 million children out of poverty in 2013. A triumphant accomplishment given that he ties childhood poverty to asthma, obesity, infant mortality, and a greater risk for injuries. Dreyer says that a transition out of poverty allows for parents to be empowered to provide for better healthy habits and long term success. Although Dreyer makes a number of valid points, writer Tracie McMillan would argue that the positive correlations come down to preference just as much as greater disposable income. In her 2012 article, "Do Poor People Eat Badly Because of Food Deserts or Personal Preference?", she makes reference to cases she's heard in which poor individuals would rather buy the latest Nike shoes versus wisely spending earned income on healthy, affordable meals. While food deserts play a role, McMillan feels that personal preference to certain foods is a hurdle that must also be overcome. To this Dreyer would likely push a point he made towards the end of the article in which he advocates for investment in early education programs as a part of the solution. This is because nutritious meals are provided, eliminating the possibility for a child to choose something not so good for them. Dr. Dreyer wraps this need for early education programs into a four part plan which he feels will combat childhood poverty. Other components include raising the minimum wage, maintaining the WIC and SNAP programs, and providing high-quality, affordable child care. He says that these programs have been proven to lead to better outcomes. Unfortunately, this still leaves some kids to fall through the cracks, still disadvantaged. Less than 20% of impoverished children are eligible for child care subsidies, not to mention those kids with parents not working for a minimum wage. Rory O'Connor, producer of the eye-opening 2010 documentary, The Harvest, would assert that the assistance needs to come in some other fashion. In the film, he conveys the message that children in these farming families are trapped in poverty, with little upward opportunity. They and their parents would not benefit from a minimum wage increase. To which Dreyer would refute, saying that minimum wage jobs are certainly out there to be had, they are not tied to farming by any means. At the end of the day, Dr. Dreyer presents a positive message that can and has already begun to benefit impoverished children across the nation.
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