Energy, inflation and poverty: How do rising bills affect the poorest and what can you do?

Mutual aid in times of rising energy costs

Since 2019, the financial situation of many Poles has deteriorated dramatically, mainly due to the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as rising energy, gas and heating costs. These factors affect not only entrepreneurs, but alsothe poorest families who struggle with increasingly higher bills for basic needs. Rising energy prices not only burden household budgets, but also deepen poverty levels across the country.

Increase in poverty – comparison of 2019 and 2024

In2019, before the pandemic, approximately1.6 million peoplelived in extreme poverty, of which 410 thousand are children. These were times of relative economic stability, although financial difficulties were already a challenge for many Poles. Extreme poverty means that these people did not have enough income to meet their basic needs in life, such as food, housing and health care.

In2024, the number of people living in extreme poverty increased to 2.5 million, with of which more than 521 thousand are children. This means an increase of over 110 thousand childrenin just five years. This dramatic increase has been driven by the pandemic, rising energy prices and inflation, which have placed even greater burdens on the poorest families.

Life below the social minimum

In2019, approximately16.8 million Poleslived below the social minimum. This meant that their income only allowed them to cover basic living needs, but not to fully participate in social life. Pensioners were a large part of this group, often living on the verge of the subsistence level and struggling to pay basic bills.

In2024, the number of people living below the social minimum increased to 17.3 million. This is an increase of half a million people, which shows how rising costs of living, including energy costs, deepen social exclusion and lower the standard of living of many Poles. Seniors, who are particularly vulnerable to the effects of price increases, often do not have sufficient funds to pay heating and energy bills.

Mutual aid – What can you do?

Rising energy costs hit primarily the poorest, but each of us can help by supporting those who need it most. Sometimes it's enough tocheck on your neighbors to find out if they need help. Small gestures, such as inviting a neighbor for dinner or delivering groceries, can significantly improve their everyday lives.

Support from entrepreneurs

If you are an entrepreneur, you can help on a larger scale. Contact a nearby school and ask if you can subsidize lunches for children from families in financial difficulties. Even a little support can help children who struggle to eat, especially now, when energy costs and inflationare putting even more strain on their families.

Help for seniors

Let's not forget about ourseniors. Many retirees live below the subsistence level and struggle with rising heating and energy bills. They oftendon't ask for help out of shame, but any gesture of support can improve their everyday life. Visit older family membersor neighbors, invite them for meals - such small gestures can make a huge difference.

Axtora Energy perfectly understands how rising energy costs affect the lives of both businesses and the poorest Poles. We encourage each other and support the local community. Together we can reduce the impact of rising energy costs, improving the lives of those who need it most.

Also read: www.axtoraenergy.com/pages/pomoc-dla-osob-w-trudnej-sytuacji