Nearly half the residents of one Hudson Valley county are broke according to a new survey by the United Way. The 311 page report is a little much to take in so here's a look at what local residents are up against.

This information comes to light via the 2016 ALICE study or 'Asset Limited Income Constrained Employed'. It's a term used to describe working people who struggle to make ends meet. The study shows that 45% of Ulster County residents don't make enough money to pay the bills. 12% are living below what the federal government considers the poverty level and an additional 33% fall below the 'ALICE' criteria.

The poverty line, where people can start qualifying for aid, is just over $11,000 and $23,000 for a family. However, according to the report, the minimum funds needed to cover your expenses in Ulster County are $22,000 and $71,000 respectively.

While the national unemployment level hit a 9 year low of 4.6% in November, many of the jobs created during the recovery have not been high paying. The purpose of this report was to call to attention the struggles many Americans continue to face.

More From WRRV-WRRB