One of the most persistent myths about poverty and low-income vulnerability is that it affects only those who don’t work. The reality is far different. In fact, the majority of families experiencing poverty are working hard every day in full-time jobs, yet they still struggle to make ends meet.

Meet the Williams* Family. Both parents, Sarah* and James*, work full-time jobs. Sarah is a teacher’s aide, and James is a retail associate. They work many hours to provide for their two children and still find themselves constantly on the edge of financial stability. With a combined income just above $40,560, they don’t qualify for government assistance like SNAP, which cuts off at this level for a family of four. Even though they earn less than 185% of the federal poverty level (just $57,720), they are left without the safety net many assume is available.

This is where The Food Hub steps in. For families like the Williams, who make too much to receive government subsidies but not enough to comfortably cover their living expenses, supplemental services are a critical lifeline. By providing food, clothing, and other essential resources, the Food Hub helps them stretch their income further, allowing them to make other vital payments, such as rent and utilities, without having to sacrifice their family's well-being.

The Reality Behind the Myth: 70% of the families served at The Food Hub have at least one working member. These are people who are doing their best, working full-time, on Social Security, or receiving Disability/SSI, yet still need assistance. An additional 11% work part-time or rely on gig or contract work to get by. Only 11% of those served are unemployed due to being laid off or unable to find work. The biggest reasons for not working? Illness, disability, and retirement.

These numbers tell the real story—one that dispels the myth that poverty is the result of not working. Families like the Williams are proof that poverty can affect anyone, even those who work hard every day.

By supporting The Food Hub during ExtraGive, you are helping vulnerable families like the Williams navigate the challenges of working poverty. Your contribution ensures that they don’t have to choose between paying the rent and putting food on the table.

*Note: Names have been changed to respect privacy.

The Food Hub has been selected by Olive Basin once again as one of the participating nonprofits in this year’s Kitchen Kettle Village Scarecrow Contest! From September 20th-28th, you can support the Food Hub by voting for our scarecrow! Each dollar donated counts as one vote, and Kitchen Kettle Village will match up to $1,000 of the winning scarecrow donations. PLUS, we already have a $1,000 matching gift from Woodstream Foundation, so your vote will make an even bigger impact! Every dollar helps keep essential services like free food, clothing, and supportive outreach programs consistently available under the big, red awning.