We believe that poverty affects a relatively small number of Americans, that too much welfare assistance is provided, and that poverty is ultimately a result of not working hard enough. Although pervasive, each assumption is flat-out wrong.
(Fixed the link. Thanks, humanodon.)
Something I like to keep in mind: There is always more money owed than currently in circulation. This in essence requires some people to default and go bankrupt each year, poverty is therefore built into our economic system.
To me it's even more shameful that we don't take care of those in poverty enough when we require that some be in poverty...especially when our military budget is so stupidly high.