MY TURN: How low-income families survive

Low-income families in the Pacific Northwest face a number of daily challenges that significantly impact their lives and overall well-being.

From financial struggles to limited access to resources, these families often find themselves trapped in a cycle of poverty.

Low-income families are an increasingly significant portion of our society, struggling to make ends meet and provide for loved ones. This takes a toll on family dynamics, creating added stress and strain. Parents may feel guilty for not being able to provide the quality of life they desire for their children, and this causes anxiety and a sense of failure.

If that isn't enough, the constant struggle to meet basic needs leaves little time or energy for other aspects of family life.

One of the biggest problems is limited income from ridiculously low-wage jobs. Despite working long hours, many individuals in low-income households earn wages that are insufficient to cover basic needs. This disparity further perpetuates the cycle of poverty.

The cost of living continues to skyrocket, especially in Coeur d'Alene, making it impossible for “lower middle-class” to survive here. Those costs seem to grow at a much faster rate in this area.

Housing, food and utilities make up a huge portion of their income as well, leaving no room for savings or unexpected expenses like necessary auto repairs or fun activities.

Ask these families about retirement and they usually just shrug and laugh, or smile as they convince themselves to continue the endless battle.

I remember my child’s mother crying, angry, having to make choices that no parent ever wants to make, such as sacrificing nutrition or living in housing that's most likely plagued with drug use and criminal activity.

Believe it or not drug and criminal activity are issues that are equally growing just as fast in this area. It ties directly in with these issues. Drug use and alcoholism were traps I fell into while struggling with mental health. Together, they have been an unforgiving, devastating force that tore apart my family and my marriage. Years later, drugs eventually even took me away from the Lord, oftentimes the only one that can help.

Worst of all, drugs and alcohol took away my children. I will never forgive myself for that.

Living on a limited income also usually means turning to credit cards or loans to make ends meet. However, reliance on debt can lead to a permanent cycle of instability. High interest rates and fees drain any leftover funds.

Some families can turn to assistance programs to help alleviate some of their financial burdens. Most of the time these programs often come with ridiculous eligibility requirements and application processes that can put almost any couple in a counselor’s office.

Navigating the social welfare system is often impossible, usually also accompanied by income thresholds and asset limitations. Some parents often find themselves working multiple jobs to make ends meet. This leaves little time for rest and the constant juggling act between work and family obligations, and can even lead to exhaustion and anger, making it even more challenging to provide emotional support.

Affordable and accessible child care is a major hurdle for these families. The cost of child care often exceeds a significant portion of their income, leaving parents without options. This of course leads to more decision-making most parents are lucky enough not to endure.

Education is another growingly impossible challenge. The achievement gap between affluent and low-income students is a well-documented issue, often hindering academic success.

Those struggling can’t afford school supplies, tutoring or extracurricular activities that would enhance their children's education.

All of this just breeds further poverty.

As we all know, education is a vital pathway toward upward economic mobility and, oftentimes, toward success or freedom. Same things can even effect your health and happiness.

Health care is another vital necessity, yet access to adequate health care coverage can be struggle or completely impossible. Limited financial resources make it challenging to afford health insurance premiums, leaving families vulnerable to medical emergencies.

Without proper coverage, preventative care, essential medications and timely treatments become unaffordable luxuries. This lack of access has severe consequences on the overall well-being of some families, perpetuating their struggles and hindering their ability to thrive.

Mental health is also an integral part of overall well-being, yet it is often overlooked, especially in poor communities. The stress and challenges associated with poverty can take a toll on mental health, exacerbating issues such as anxiety and depression. Unfortunately, the stigma surrounding mental health can prevent individuals from seeking treatment.

From education and health care to employment and housing, poverty often limits the opportunities available to individuals and families.

Without the means to access essential resources, breaking the cycle of poverty becomes an uphill battle for low-income families. Defunding vital programs and eliminating safety nets also sets us up for failure.

It is crucial for local government and policymakers alike to prioritize the needs of our community. In conclusion, the challenges faced by these families often dictate every aspect of their daily lives.

Not exactly what you think of when you think about the American dream. By understanding the realities and addressing the issues, we can make this place a happy one, for everyone.

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Casey O'Sullivan is a Coeur d'Alene resident.