# Concern for the Poor – Walking in Praise with Pope Francis
*2015-10-13*

> Bill Young reflects on Pope Francis’ call to care for the poor, sharing stories from South Florida and urging listeners to respond with compassion and practical help.

## A Day of Prayer and Reflection

Good morning, I’m Bill Young. Today is Tuesday, October 13, the feast day of Blessed Marie‑Rose Durocher of Montreal. In our 30‑day series “Walking in Praise with Pope Francis,” day 17 focuses on “Concern for the Poor.”

## The Reality of Poverty in South Florida

In our community we see several faces of poverty. There are the homeless, but also working families who suddenly lose their income—especially when a child becomes seriously ill. I know families whose children have cancer; a single mother often has to quit her job to take the child to treatment. The rent, utilities, and other bills keep coming, yet there is no income to cover them. That is when the crisis hits hardest.

## Emergency Aid Through Ariel Anchor Cancer Foundation

I’m involved with the Ariel Anchor Cancer Foundation, which provides emergency assistance for families facing exactly this situation—paying rent or utility bills while they await longer‑term help from government or charitable programs. If you feel called to support, donations to this foundation and similar charities that aid families with sick children can make a real difference.

## Pope Francis on Poverty and the Environment

Pope Francis reminds us that the neglect of nature is inseparable from the neglect of humanity. Climate scientists warn that drastic action is needed now; some deny the science, but the Pope says that this denial often stems from the same mindset that prevents us from confronting global poverty. He urges us to stop turning a blind eye and to reach out in love and compassion to the poor.

## Today's Ponder and Prayer

Ponder: Who are the poor where I live, and where are they? Prayer: “God of creation, break the hardness of my heart so that I may hear the cries of the poor and then do more to work on their behalf.”

*When we soften our hearts to the cries of the poor, we respond to God’s call to love both humanity and creation.*