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About Global Poverty
Together, we can end poverty in our lifetime.
Global poverty is an urgent issue which demands collaborative efforts to create effective and sustainable solutions that can uplift the lives of millions in need.
It is estimated that almost 650 million of the world’s population live in extreme poverty. Ultra-poverty is a subset of this. Often headed by women, these households tend to require more dedicated time, guidance, and specialized products and services to build better lives for themselves.
Opportunity International Canada envisions a world in which all people can achieve a life free from poverty, with dignity and purpose. Through microfinance, training, and support we are empowering families to build better lives for themselves and leave poverty behind for good.
Though the challenge remains great, we are committed to creating sustainable, scalable, and multi-faceted solutions to end poverty and creating lasting change.
Understanding Poverty
- Almost a quarter of the global population, 23 percent, lived below the US$3.65 poverty line.
- The World Bank estimates that in 2023, about 650 million people—roughly one in twelve—live in extreme poverty, on less than $3/day.
- A subset of extreme poverty is absolute or ultra-poverty, which is defined as people living in extreme poverty who cannot even afford the most basic food, shelter, and clothing.
- According to the U.N. in 2022, 1.2 billion people across 111 low-income countries live in multi-dimensional poverty because they experience severe deprivation of health, education and life quality. They typically lack electricity, clean water, sanitation or education.
CLIENT STORIES
Meet lives leaving poverty behind, for good.
Christiana, Ghana
Christiana’s story is one of remarkable resilience and entrepreneurial spirit. Despite growing up in extreme poverty and facing challenges, she found the determination to improve her life and her children’s futures. With the help of a microloan, Christiana began selling small items. With her hardwork and determination, she has transformed her business from a humble roadside table to a thriving market shop.
Anyeli, Colombia
Anyeli’s pursuit of a brighter future in Venezuela took an unexpected turn with motherhood and her husband’s involvement in criminal activities. Concerned for her family’s safety, she returned to Colombia, where she encountered Agape’s Graduation Program on Lago Street. Initially reserved, Anyeli embraced the program’s training, gradually building confidence and knowledge to create a better life for her family.
Senayda, Honduras
Senayda and her husband earned an income by renting vehicles for their taxi service from others, but they dreamed of owning their own. She sought loans from traditional banking providers but was denied. Then, one day her life took a pivotal turn when she was introduced to IDH, our implementing partner in Honduras.