America has traditionally been a land where hard work leads to success.
Today, that commonly held ideal is in peril. Wages have not kept pace with the rising cost of housing, health care, child care, gas and other needs. As a result, as many as one-third of working Americans do not earn enough money to meet their basic needs.
We are committed to helping individuals and families in our community achieve financial stability. By bringing together community partners, we help lower-income individuals and families achieve financial independence by providing the skills necessary to maximize their income, build savings and gain assets.
Since the path to financial stability is often difficult, United Way and our partners continue to provide individuals and families with access to emergency food, shelter and financial assistance.
DID YOU KNOW?
- In 2005, 31% of Franklin County residents were classified as low-income.
- Only 37% of lower-income working families have a checking or savings account with more than $300 saved.
- More than 12% of the U.S. population has an income below the federal poverty level, in spite of the fact that many are employed, some with two or three jobs.
