Day 6 Reflection | World Day of the Poor Novena 2026
This reflection was written by Cáitlín and Iman from Caritas Westminster, a member of Caritas Social Action Network, which works alongside parishes, schools and community organisations to support people experiencing poverty and hardship across the Diocese of Westminster.
For the sixth day of our World Day of the Poor Novena, Cáitlín and Iman reflect on the realities of material poverty, from food insecurity and rising living costs to the difficult choices facing families struggling to afford life’s essentials.
Drawing upon Caritas Westminster’s experience of providing emergency assistance, supporting parish-based initiatives and advocating for lasting change, they remind us that our response to poverty must extend beyond meeting immediate needs to addressing the injustices that cause hardship in the first place.
They also highlight opportunities for practical solidarity, including Caritas Westminster’s annual Advent Giving Calendar, which encourages parish and school communities to support local food banks during Advent and beyond.
