News

Connect: NY series features poverty in New York State, first episode premieres at 9 p.m. Jan. 30

by Rouhollah Goudarzi

January 27, 2017

“Connect: NY” WCNY’s public affairs series features a new series “Being Poor: Real Stories of Poverty.” Susan Arbetter, host of the series, will explore what not having enough food, clothing, housing or money means in today’s society. Learn about the choices both the urban and rural poor must make every single day. 

“Being Poor: Cycle of Injustice” airs at 9 p.m. Jan. 30

Explore the story of Jamir, a teen with no former record that has recently been arrested several times for what he calls “walking while black.” “Connect: NY” spends a day with Jamir and his family, and the employer who helped him get back on track when the justice system failed him. Those most familiar with this issue shed light on the challenges and potential solutions to this issue crucial to minorities living in urban poverty. 

Joining host Susan Arbetter for this conversation are: 

• Fabina Colon, Director, Multi-cultural Resource Center
• Jonathan Gradess, Executive Director, New York State Defenders Association
• Charles Khan, Organizing Director, Strong Economy For All Coalition
• Ron Deutsch, Executive Director, Fiscal Policy Institute
• Phoebe Brown, Outreach Coordinator, Ultimate Re-entry Opportunity

 Future episodes include:

“Being Poor:  Too Old to Work”  at 9 p.m. Feb. 13

Explore poverty among the elderly, many of whom live on fixed incomes while at the same time struggling with multiple healthcare issues.

 For viewing information, visit wcny.org/wheretowatch. Each episode will be available following the TV broadcast at wcny.org/connectny.