Sara Goldrick-Rab

This book delves into the topic of charity and its resurgence as a popular solution to poverty and hunger in the absence of government-sponsored welfare programs. Sociologist Janet Poppendieck critiques this approach, arguing that it creates stopgap solutions instead of consistent public policy, causing poverty to persist. Poppendieck shares firsthand accounts from those who receive meals from charitable efforts, enthusiastic volunteers, and directors who question the effectiveness of their programs. "Sweet Charity?" is a significant book that sheds light on the pitfalls of well-meaning but short-term charitable solutions to poverty.

This influential book from Michael B. Katz challenges America's view of poverty as a personal failure, highlighting alternative explanations such as place, resources, and market failure. With updated material on recent developments and successes, this compelling read is a must for anyone interested in understanding and combatting poverty.