Basic Needs Affinity Group: The Suburbanization of Poverty and our Social Service System

Over the course of this decade, two economic downturns translated into a significant rise in poverty, across the country. Suburbs, not cities, saw by far the greatest growth in their poor population and by 2008 had become home to the largest share of the nation’s poor. An ongoing shift in the geography of American poverty suggests a need for regional collaboration by policymakers and social service providers. 

Join us to hear Brookings Senior Research Associate Elizabeth Kneebone share her insight into national trends as well as some data for our region as a platform for a discussion about strengths and gaps in the delivery of social services. Directors of area Departments of Social Services from Baltimore City, Baltimore County, and Anne Arundel County will respond to the research recommendations and share their perspectives.

Speakers include: 

• Elizabeth Kneebone, Senior Research Associate, Metropolitan Policy Program at the Brookings Institution; and 
• Directors of the Departments of Social Services: Timothy Griffith (Baltimore County); Marcia Kennai (Anne Arundel County); and Molly McGrath (Baltimore City).

This program is for members and invited guests only; lunch will be served.