WPRO News
Putting poverty front and center. That's the goal of faith leaders from all around Rhode Island who are holding a vigil this afternoon at the State House.
"Our big goal today is to make sure that the issues of poverty are front and center… and that we don't solve our problems on the backs of the most vulnerable citizens", said Rev. Donald Anderson, RI Council of Churches on the WPRO Morning News with Tara Granahan and Andrew Gobeil.
Anderson spoke of an 80-year old homeless man and a group of 38 people living in tents in West Warwick. He said many faith groups are advocating for the homeless, now the legislators need to understand and step up.
"We know what to do … the thing is to help our legislators understand what the issues are and appropriate money in the best way possible so we get a good value for the money spent and we really change peoples' lives," said Rev. Anderson.
The Fighting Poverty with Faith Vigil takes place in the State House rotunda at 3pm; it's open to the public. The group is calling attention to legislation that would restrict pay day loans, increase social welfare programs and boost resources for the homeless. Scheduled speakers include leaders from a variety of faiths and Lt. Gov. Elizabeth Roberts.
