Author will take on low-wages issues in talk

Barbara Ehrenreich, nationally-known journalist and author, will speak about poverty and wage issues at Mazama Gym at Central Oregon Community College on Saturday, October 26, at 7 p.m.

"Too many families in our community work hard and still live in poverty," said Renée Davidson of Human Dignity Coalition, a sponsor of the event.

"Wages are not keeping up with the cost of living. Barbara Ehrenreich learned first-hand how badly we need decent paying jobs with benefits and security for workers."

Recently released in paperback, Ehrenreich's book "Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting By in America," explores how people get by on low-wage jobs.

Wondering how those kicked off the welfare rolls were surviving on $7 per hour, Ehrenreich went undercover to work as a Wal-Mart sales associate, cleaning woman, nursing-home assistant and a waitress. Her book reflects those experiences.

Ehrenreich's speech is free to the public. Organizers suggest a $10 donation to help cover costs. Proceeds will benefit nonprofit groups working on poverty and wage issues.