Often not deemed poor by the official poverty measure more families in Person County lack enough income to meet the rising costs of essentials - food, housing, transportation and healthcare. Many families are one interruption away from devastation. COVID-19 has become that one universal interruption.  The 2020 NC Self-Sufficiency report released by United Way of NC highlights the growing gap between sluggish wages and ever-increasing expenses, clearly illuminating the economic “crunch” experienced by so many families today. 

Key Findings  

• In North Carolina, the amount needed to be economically self-sufficient varies considerably by geographic location and family type. 
• For families with young children, the cost of housing and child care combined typically account for approximately half of the family's budget. 
• Over the past two decades, cost increases have far outstripped wage increases. 
• The federal poverty measure for three-person families ($21,720 annually) is set at a level well below what is minimally adequate to meet a family's basic needs.

Join the community discussion on October 22nd at 7pm.