Congressman Steny Hoyer (D: MD-5th) hosted a discussion on women and poverty with the Women’s Network Advisory Committee at the Clarion Inn in Waldorf on Tuesday afternoon.  Much of the discussion focused around entitlements and financial literacy.

“I was pleased to meet today with women business and community leaders who represent the interests of women throughout the Fifth District,” Hoyer said. “These regular meetings provide a wonderful opportunity for networking and valuable discussions on a range of issues important to our communities. This past year, the Committee worked to identify why women in our communities are struggling – financially and otherwise – and how we can work together to better address their needs. I am proud to work with this outstanding group of leaders to ensure that our society continues to support progress for women in our local communities and throughout our nation.”

There is a seven percent poverty rate in Charles County, which is the 15th wealthiest county in the nation.

“Rural poverty is much more challenging than urban poverty,” Hoyer said during the discussion.  “You have resources to tackle urban poverty.”

“Financial literacy is a big issue,” Parker Financial LLC President Christine Parker said.  “There are six counties in MD that have made financial literacy a requirement to pass high school.  Charles County was the first and there is a movement in Annapolis to make this a statewide requirement.  We have to learn how to budget.”

“Health insurance is catastrophic for small businesses,” Great Coupons President Sue Apple from Calvert County said.  “Why can’t the Chamber of Commerce offer it nationwide?”

Hoyer responded to Apple’s remark by saying he needed to hear more from small businesses.  He also said that previous discussions with small businesses over health insurance have not generated much turnout from small business owners.