On Wednesday, the RISE Together Innovation Institute and Scioto Analysis released a groundbreaking report, Poverty and Economic Insecurity in Franklin County, shedding light on the systemic challenges facing residents of one of Ohio's most populous counties. The report reveals that while Franklin County is a hub of economic prosperity, nearly 40% of households still struggle to afford basic necessities like food, housing, and healthcare.
The study outlines the drivers of economic instability, including rising costs, low wages, and the enduring effects of systemic racism. It also provides recommendations for policymakers, community leaders, and organizations to promote economic mobility and security for all residents.
"This report lays out the reality: poverty is not inevitable; it's the result of policy choices,” said Rob Moore, Principal for Scioto Analysis, “by adopting solutions that address poverty and its causes, we can ensure a future where every Franklin County resident has the opportunity to succeed."
Key findings include:
High Cost of Living: The median home price in Franklin County has jumped 54% since 2017, while rent for a two-bedroom apartment has increased by 47%.
Economic Disparities: Black residents are more than twice as likely as white residents to live in poverty.
Child Poverty: Nearly 1 in 5 children in the county live below the Federal Poverty Level, amounting to an estimated 59,000 children in the county living in poverty.
The report also highlights successful programs, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), while calling for initiatives to boost childcare access, housing stability, and job quality.
For more information or to download the full report, visit the RISE Together Innovation Institute website.