By Joyce Kryszak
Buffalo, NY – Local academics and advocates for the poor are getting together on Friday to address Buffalo's poverty crisis.
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Numbers and data can tell us a lot about the effect of Buffalo's economy on its people. Sadly, it tells us that Buffalo is the third poorest city in the country. A full third of the people who live here struggle just to get by.
But what can numbers do to feed people or put a roof over their heads? Academics and activists believe quite a lot.
Sam Magavern is co-director at Partnership for the Public Good. It is one of five groups sponsoring Friday's workshop. Magavern said it begins with translating data into flesh and blood partnerships.
There is already some evidence of success. Samina Raja is a researcher with UB's department of planning. She is one of the workshop presenters. Raja will talk about her long-standing partnership with the Massachusetts Avenue Project. The west side group helps people access nutritious food. Raja said her research helps them target where they are most needed.
Researchers and advocates also will be posting their shared ideas and information on line at the Homeless Alliance of Western New York .
Registration for the workshop is full, but anyone interested is encouraged to access the web site for resource materials.