The Marathon County Hunger Coalition conducted a survey of individuals accessing services at local food pantries recently. The survey confirmed the interconnectedness of issues like food, shelter, transportation and mental health. Did you know:
50% of individuals requesting food assistance are employed, but 43% don't make enough to meet their basic needs for food and shelter on a regular basis
40% don't have reliable, affordable transportation to get to work, school, appointments, etc.
25% report mild to severe mental health issues
74% have NOT used alcohol, drugs or misused prescription medications in the last six months.
This information reinforces the findings in the ALICE Report which was released in October, 2016. That report shows that 41% of Marathon County residents don't earn enough to support their basic living expenses. You can read the ALICE Report on our website.
