Global crisis is “boosting” poverty numbers

TIRANA, March 24؁ CARITAS study shows that Albanian families seeking economic assistance to put food on their table have increased by 33% in the first two months of 2009.
In cities such as Lac, Kruje, and Shkodra, but also in many villages in southern and northern regions, poverty has flourished. The study reveals higher numbers of kids abandoning schools, or families that can’t afford to pay for medicine or rent.
“A family is not poor only because it can’t afford food. A family is poor when it lacks perspective and when it can’t pay for its health and education,” Albert Nikolla says, General Director of Caritas.
Experts estimate that the real impact of the global crisis will be felt into 2010, therefore it is important to plan ahead so that proper measures can be taken.