New Study Claims Residents From One Hudson Valley County Are Broke
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.