"We are in a position to eradicate it:" Social Development Commission hosts Summit on Poverty

MILWAUKEE -- The Social Development Commission on Tuesday, August 2nd hosted the 2016 Summit on Poverty in Milwaukee.

The free event, called "Dismantling Poverty: A Courageous Conversation" was held at the Italian Conference Center.

The goal of the summit was to help start conversation that will lead to action -- to help with poverty in Milwaukee.

After keynote speaker Dr. Joyce Degruy gave an address, everyone broke into groups to work on an action plan.

A summit co-chair spoke with FOX6 News about how, even though this problem is widespread, it can be fixed.

"This is something that is man-made -- and as a result, we are in a position to eradicate it. So one of the goals for today is to leave here with an action plan that addresses next steps," Gary Williams said.

Organizers of the summit focused on partnership throughout communities in southeastern Wisconsin to help move Milwaukee residents beyond poverty.

More than 50 organizations showed up in support.