The Emotional State of Poverty: A Powerful Photo Essay

Last week, Slate.com published a powerful photo essay illustrating the emotional state of poverty in Troy, NY.

 Slate.com

You may be thinking, “What does the emotional state of poverty mean?”

Photographer Brenda Ann Kenneally captured this in her visual narrative featured on Slate.com. As a native of Troy who struggled with teen pregnancy, drugs and an unstable living environment, Kenneally returned to her hometown after getting sober and studying photojournalism to capture what she experienced as an emotional state of poverty. She explains,

“Poverty is an emotional (rather than simply) physical state with layers of marginalization that cements those who live under them into place.”

We often see this emotional marginalization in at-risk teens, which can propel the cycle of drugs, alcohol and crime. To minimize this impact, Reclaiming Futures sites implement several programs to ensure teens feel supported. A few examples are:

  • Mentors and natural helpers who are matched with young people with similar interests
  • Promising Artists in Recovery program (PAIR), which is a series of workshops for teens to exercise creative outlets
  • Internships and job shadowing in partnership with community stakeholders

Through community partnerships and creative outlets, we can ensure that more at-risk youths feel supported, motivated and not alone.

Photo credit: Slate.com

Updated: July 24 2014