United Way of Central Iowa report reveals community challenges
The from United Way of Central Iowa is giving insight into the challenges facing Iowa communities. The nonprofit detailed its findings at its annual Live United luncheon on Tuesday.
The community report focuses on areas of essential needs, economic opportunity, early childhood success, education success and health and wellbeing. United Way uses the acronym A.L.I.CE. to refer to those in Central Iowa communities who are asset-limited, income-constrained and employed.
United Way President Mary Sellers describes ALICE workers as the "engine that keeps our economy running" like retail clerks, childcare workers and delivery drivers.
"Thirty-five percent of central Iowans cannot afford the basics in life," Sellers said. "That statistic equates to 92,000 people. It's increased by a thousand just one year over another. To think that one of every three people cannot afford the basics in our central Iowa community, that's really amazing."
According to the Bureau of Labor of Statistics of United for ALICE, wages increased nearly 5% in 2022 but the cost of basics for a family of four increased 17% in Central Iowa. More data from the findings shows that of the most common jobs in Iowa, 40% of them pay less than $20 an hour which is not enough to afford household essentials.
Sellers say that now more than ever community-based services and nonprofits are essential in making sure all Iowans can thrive.
"With the federal funding that we're seeing being cut, 30% of nonprofits in Iowa receive federal funding for services in social sector field," Sellers said. "It would be very difficult to make up that type of investment through other sources."
United Way of Central Iowa says the best way to support those it serves is through giving, advocating and volunteering.
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