This article examines the intersection of race and poverty on the lives of Black women living in urban communities. Historical systemic racism continues to leave many marginalized communities on the periphery and struggling to maneuver in a society that limits access to empowerment to move out of poverty. To transform the lives of those living in poor urban communities, dismantling systemic racism where race and poverty intersect must be included in policymakers' priorities. This work begins with partnerships forged between public policy makers, adult educators, literacy education and training programs, welfare programs, and employment programs and employers.