Poverty Levels in St. Francois County

(Bonne Terre, MO) Bonne Terre Chamber of Commerce members know the poverty level in St. Francois County is higher than you might expect after an address presented at Wednesday's Bonne Terre Chamber of Commerce meeting. A Program Manager with the East Missouri Action Agency, Rob Baker, says studies show the poverty rate in the county is 19%, but that figure needs perspective to properly understand.

Baker explained to those at the meeting sometimes people get stuck in the system and a cycle of poverty can't be broken. He urged everyone to talk with their legislators on searching for ways to improve the system so those in poverty can find a way out. In Other business at Wednesday's Bonne Terre Chamber of Commerce meeting it was announced Hub's Pub in Bonne Terre is having a dine in fundraiser today for fallen Bonne Terre Officer Lane Burns and wounded Officer Garrett Worley. 100% of the sales from the event at Hub's Pub's Bonne Terre location will be donated to the cause.