The question being the "cause of poverty". People dont have money! This may sound simplistic but think about it for a second. Since LBJ's war on poverty we have spent multibillions on welfare housing food stamps etc. and guess where the poverty rate is? Real close to the same! It has fluctuated a bit over the years as the economy goes but not a single measurable dent has been put into it. (for a source just google us census poverty)
To sound just as simplistic to those that hold different beliefs it may be as simple as Jesus said "the poor will always be with us". That doesnt mean we shouldnt do all we can to help them find a way to a better life but there are always going to be those that will do the minimum needed to get by. (on a side note that is also why communism and socialism fails).
Okay tear me apart now but it is what i have seen through my life.