Believers help break the cycle of poverty through an outreach in Florida.

USA (MNN)– Poverty is a vicious cycle and an international problem.

Even in the wealthiest countries, there are millions trapped in that cycle. In the United States, over twelve percent of the population lives below the poverty line.

Tight labor markets mean entry-level jobs are hard to get, and sometimes harder to keep for those without education.

Sometimes the struggle to survive means a choice between food and medicine or clothes and heat. For families in this difficulty, it only seems to spiral downward.

However, that’s where the work of Operation Blessing comes in.

OBI announced an expansion of their ministry in Florida. Through their Hope Works outreach, a new Life Skills Empowerment Program Center opened its doors in St. Petersburg.

The Center offers practical training for the unemployed or underemployed, helping break the cycle of dependence and poverty.

OBI teams are able to demonstrate the love of Christ effectively through the skills they teach, in addition to relieving physical needs.