Health Observances

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The CMS Office of Minority Health welcomes your participation in promoting observances throughout the year to raise awareness about health issues affecting people across our nation. Share our resources on prevention, health equity, and research about health disparities.

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Spotlight

Advancing health equity during National Poverty in America Awareness Month

Each year, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Office of Minority Health (CMS OMH) recognizes National Poverty in America Awareness Month to raise awareness about the health care challenges faced by people living in poverty. In 2023, 36.8% of Americans were living in poverty, or 11.1% of the population—down 0.4% from 2022—living on an income of less than $14,500 for an individual or $30,000 for a family of four. American Indian and Alaska Native and Black communities experience the highest rates of poverty at 21.2% and 17.9%, respectively, while non-Hispanic White individuals are least likely to experience poverty. Children under the age of 18 make up the largest age group experiencing poverty, which often leads to developmental delays, toxic stress, chronic illnesses, and nutritional deficits. Children under 5 years old had the highest poverty rate at 20.9 %, whereas those ages 5 to 16 had a poverty rate of 18.9 %.

Poverty often occurs in concentrated areas and continues for long periods of time. This may create barriers like reduced access to resources, such as stable housing, healthy foods, access to health care, education, and employment opportunities. In 2023, 13.6% of people experiencing poverty lived in rural areas. In urban regions, 10.7% of people lived in poverty.

CMS OMH recognizes the importance of advancing health equity for all Americans during National Poverty in America Awareness Month. We encourage you to review and share the resources below throughout January and beyond.