CHNA - Flipbook - Page 18
Social Determinants of Health
Economic Stability Overview
Financial stability was seen as key indicator of overall health. People indicated that if they were unable to meet basic
needs, it was impossible to prioritize one’s health. People who are working long hours, and without livable wages, find it
challenging to prioritize healthy living. People in our service area are feeling the pressure of inflation and the rising costs
of goods and services. Again, there are disparities in poverty rates and income by race and zip code in the Verdant
Service Area, which are detailed in the report. Seniors noted feeling especially squeezed by inflation, as the cost of living
is increasing, but their social security income is fixed. The rising cost of goods and services is well-documented, and it is
clear from the Community Perspectives Survey, that this is being felt in our community. When asked what people
needed to be healthy, people said the following:
“Trying to convince people to lower the prices”
• “Food stamps ...another 15% rent increase makes my income 100% rent consumed.”
• “Money to help pay bills and put decent food on the table. Social Security Disability payments are now way below
minimum wage and puts us at below poverty level -- yet we do not qualify for food stamps.”
Median Income and Living Wages in Verdant’s Service Area have not grown in proportion to the increased cost of living.
There is an increasing divide in terms of wealth and income disparity, with approximately 34% of residents living at
extremely low and very low-income levels, and over 25% living well above the Area Median Income. These disparities
create vast inequities in the Verdant Service Area. Specific communities face greater disparities in economic stability.
People of color in our service area live below the poverty level at a higher rate compared to White people. Systemic
racism leads to inequities in economic opportunities, wage discrimination, and systemic barriers to building wealth and
equity for people of color.
Verdant Health Commission 2022
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