According to new U.S. Census Bureau statistic, the economic difficulties have hit middle and low income families hardest, widening the gap between them and the rich lower incomes boosted poverty rates in 31 states and Washington, D.C
,from 2007 to 2008, compared with increases in just 10 state the year before. Overall,the U.S. rate hit an 11 year high of 13.2%, while the number of Americans receiving food stamps rose 13%