Expert to help study poverty in Ozarks

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. -- A national expert on fighting poverty has been invited to the Ozarks to help an anti-poverty campaign.

Twelve organizations announced Wednesday that Ruby K. Payne will visit Springfield on Feb. 11 and 12. She is the author of "A Framework for Understanding Poverty."

The 12 organizations are launching an initiative to combat issues facing children, such as poverty, child abuse and neglect.

The Springfield News-Leader reported Payne has spoken in every U.S. state and more than 10 countries on overcoming poverty.

Morey Mechlin, executive director of Care to Learn, said the organizations will provide Payne with an extensive packet on Springfield before her visit. Payne will use the information to discuss existing strategies and others that could be used to reduce poverty.

Her visit is expected to cost about $20,000.

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Information from: Springfield News-Leader, http://www.news-leader.com