Millions in the U.S. are trapped in cycles of poverty due to well-meaning but misguided charitable models. In The Crisis of Dependency, James Whitford, Founder of Watered Gardens Ministries, shares how our compassion often perpetuates the very problems we aim to solve. Through personal stories, firsthand experience, and research, he reveals that handouts offer temporary relief but deepen dependency.
James has worked for decades with those struggling with homelessness and poverty and after a brief stint of living on the streets, he recognized that what most people in poverty need isn’t material aid alone, but a path to self-sufficiency. Inspired by thought leaders like Marvin Olasky and Robert D. Lupton, and drawing from his own ministry, Whitford reimagined charity as one that restores dignity through relationship and accountability. His work has transformed lives by helping individuals build the skills and mindset needed for long-term success.
This book offers a blueprint for those who want to move beyond transactional charity. James invites readers to embrace approaches that challenge the status quo and cultivate meaningful, sustainable change in communities.
NOTE: LCI does not sell this book directly, but is thrilled to promote the work of James Whitford. The “Buy Now” will take you to a Watered Gardens Ministries checkout link for this book.Â
$19.98
Millions in the U.S. are trapped in cycles of poverty due to well-meaning but misguided charitable models. In The Crisis of Dependency, James Whitford, Founder of Watered Gardens Ministries, shares how our compassion often perpetuates the very problems we aim to solve. Through personal stories, firsthand experience, and research, he reveals that handouts offer temporary relief but deepen dependency.
James has worked for decades with those struggling with homelessness and poverty and after a brief stint of living on the streets, he recognized that what most people in poverty need isn’t material aid alone, but a path to self-sufficiency. Inspired by thought leaders like Marvin Olasky and Robert D. Lupton, and drawing from his own ministry, Whitford reimagined charity as one that restores dignity through relationship and accountability. His work has transformed lives by helping individuals build the skills and mindset needed for long-term success.
This book offers a blueprint for those who want to move beyond transactional charity. James invites readers to embrace approaches that challenge the status quo and cultivate meaningful, sustainable change in communities.
NOTE: LCI does not sell this book directly, but is thrilled to promote the work of James Whitford. The “Buy Now” will take you to a Watered Gardens Ministries checkout link for this book.Â
Sign up and receive updates any day we publish a new article or podcast episode!
