A poverty threshold represents the minimum annual household income for a family not to pe considered poor. In 1995, the poverty threshold for a family of fourr with two children under the age of 18 years was \( \$ 15,514 \). In 2005 , the poverty threshold for a family of four with two children under the age of 18 years was \( \$ 19,288 \). Assuming poverty thresholds increase in a straight-line fashion, use the midpoint formula to estimate the poverty threshold of a family of four with two children under the age of 18 in 2000 .

To estimate the poverty threshold for the year 2000 using the midpoint formula, we first need to identify the poverty thresholds for the years 1995 and 2005. In 1995, it was \( \$ 15,514 \), and in 2005, it was \( \$ 19,288 \). The midpoint formula is given by: \[ \text{Midpoint} = \frac{(\text{Value}_1 + \text{Value}_2)}{2} \] To find the annual increase, we calculate: \[ \text{Annual Increase} = \frac{\text{Value}_2 - \text{Value}_1}{\text{Years}} = \frac{19,288 - 15,514}{10} = \frac{3,774}{10} = 377.40 \] Now we can calculate the poverty threshold for the year 2000: \[ \text{Threshold in 2000} = 15,514 + (5 \times 377.40) = 15,514 + 1,887 = 17,401 \] So, the estimated poverty threshold for a family of four with two children under the age of 18 in 2000 is approximately \( \$ 17,401 \). Through the years, poverty thresholds have transformed significantly based on economic conditions. Notably, the thresholds are often adjusted using inflation indexes to reflect the true cost of living. This practice ensures policies remain relevant to the families that require assistance most, considering factors like housing, healthcare, and education, which directly impact poverty levels. Did you know that tracking poverty levels is not just about income? Other factors like employment rate, education, and access to healthcare also play crucial roles. Various government programs, like SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), aim to alleviate food insecurity for families living below the poverty threshold, demonstrating a collective effort to combat poverty in practical terms.