New report from United Way of SWVA indicates over half the region cannot afford basic essentials

A new report from the Southwest Virginia chapter of the United Way says over half of the region’s families are unable to afford basic necessities.

Data from the nonprofit shows 51% of families in the state’s southwest areas are considered “ALICE”, or individuals that earn wages above the federal poverty line but less than the basic cost of living. The region exceeds the statewide ALICE percentage which is at 39%.

During the release of the Southwest Virginia ALICE Report on Thursday, United Way of Southwest Virginia President and CEO Travis Staton said, “These households contribute to Southwest Virginia’s economy by earning, spending, and paying taxes, yet they still struggle to make ends meet. Even though the cost of living in the region is lower than in the rest of the state, it is higher than what most residents earn.”

All ALICE trends in each of the region’s counties remained the same or increased from 2015-2018 except for Wythe County, who’s trends went down during that time period.

Photo Courtesy: United Way of Southwest Virginia ALICE Map