Which demographics are most affected by poverty in New Hampshire?

Answers

Answer 1

Poverty in New Hampshire: Understanding the Demographics

New Hampshire, despite its overall economic prosperity, faces challenges with poverty that disproportionately affect certain demographics. This article delves into the specific groups most vulnerable to economic hardship within the state.

Children and Families

A significant portion of impoverished individuals in New Hampshire are children. The absence of a second parent, particularly in single-mother households, exacerbates this vulnerability. Lack of access to affordable childcare and the demands of raising a family on a limited income are substantial contributing factors.

Racial and Ethnic Minorities

Data reveals that racial and ethnic minorities in New Hampshire experience higher poverty rates than their White counterparts. Systemic inequalities in employment, education, and housing contribute significantly to this disparity. Further research is crucial to identify and address the root causes of this disparity.

Individuals with Disabilities

Individuals with disabilities face significant barriers to employment and economic self-sufficiency, resulting in a higher prevalence of poverty. Limited access to support services, discriminatory employment practices, and the high cost of healthcare contribute to this challenge.

Geographic Location

Poverty is not evenly distributed across New Hampshire. Rural areas and certain urban centers have notably higher poverty rates compared to more affluent regions. This disparity highlights the critical need for targeted investments in infrastructure, job creation, and social services in these underserved areas.

Conclusion

Addressing poverty in New Hampshire requires a multifaceted approach that acknowledges the unique circumstances and challenges faced by these disproportionately affected demographics. Targeted interventions and policy changes are crucial to building a more equitable and prosperous future for all residents.

Answer 2

Children, single mothers, racial/ethnic minorities, people with disabilities, and residents of rural areas.

Answer 3

Poverty in New Hampshire disproportionately affects several key demographics. Children are significantly more likely to live in poverty than adults; families headed by single mothers face a considerably higher poverty rate than those with two parents or those headed by single fathers. Racial and ethnic minorities, particularly those identifying as Black or Hispanic, experience higher poverty rates than the state's White population. Individuals with disabilities also have a substantially higher risk of poverty due to limitations in employment opportunities and access to resources. Geographic location plays a critical role as well; poverty rates tend to be markedly higher in rural areas and some urban centers compared to more affluent suburbs and towns. The elderly, while not always the largest group, are still a vulnerable demographic facing higher poverty rates than other age groups, especially those lacking sufficient retirement savings or social security benefits.

Answer 4

Dude, it's pretty rough for kids, single moms, and minorities in NH. Rural folks also struggle a lot.

Answer 5

The socioeconomic disparities observed in New Hampshire echo national trends. However, the specific geographic concentrations of poverty within the state, alongside the significant challenges faced by children and single-parent households, underscore the urgency for targeted, evidence-based interventions. These should focus not only on immediate needs but also on addressing the underlying structural issues driving poverty in these vulnerable groups. A comprehensive approach addressing systemic inequalities in education, healthcare, and employment is vital to achieving a more equitable distribution of wealth and opportunity.


Related Questions

How has the poverty level in New Hampshire changed over time?

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Detailed Answer:

Analyzing the poverty level in New Hampshire necessitates examining data from various sources and time periods. The official poverty measure, established by the U.S. Census Bureau, provides a consistent metric for tracking changes. However, it's crucial to acknowledge that the poverty threshold is adjusted annually based on inflation and family size, influencing the reported poverty rate. Over time, New Hampshire's poverty rate has generally fluctuated within a relatively narrow range compared to national averages, reflecting a state with a relatively robust economy and diverse employment landscape. However, specific regions and demographics within the state may experience significantly higher or lower poverty rates than the state average. Access to resources like affordable housing, healthcare, and education considerably impacts local poverty rates. Examining trends within specific sub-groups (e.g., by age, race, and family structure) can provide a much more nuanced understanding of poverty's impact. Data sources like the Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS) and other state-level reports provide granular detail on poverty within specific communities and populations. Looking at these data sets over several years, perhaps decades, would reveal long-term patterns and inform effective poverty reduction strategies.

Simple Answer:

New Hampshire's poverty rate has historically been lower than the national average, though it fluctuates. It’s important to consider that the poverty level isn't static and varies based on family size and inflation.

Casual Reddit Style:

NH poverty? Yeah, it's generally lower than other places, but it still exists. You'll see some fluctuations, especially when looking at the specific areas and demographics. The official numbers change yearly because of inflation and how they define poverty.

SEO-Style Article:

Understanding Poverty Levels in New Hampshire: A Comprehensive Overview

Introduction

New Hampshire, often lauded for its strong economy, also experiences poverty. Understanding the historical trends and current status of poverty in the state is vital for implementing effective social programs.

Historical Trends in Poverty Rates

The poverty rate in New Hampshire has historically remained lower than the national average. However, examining the data from various sources like the U.S. Census Bureau reveals important fluctuations. These changes are not only influenced by national economic conditions but also by state-specific factors like access to healthcare, education, and affordable housing. Analyzing long-term trends reveals patterns useful for identifying high-risk communities.

Factors Influencing Poverty Levels

Several factors contribute to poverty in New Hampshire, including income inequality, job market fluctuations, rising housing costs, and healthcare expenses. It’s crucial to consider these complex interactions to develop effective solutions.

Addressing Poverty in New Hampshire

Effective poverty reduction requires a multi-pronged approach focusing on job creation, education, affordable housing, and access to healthcare. State initiatives and partnerships with non-profit organizations play a critical role in improving the lives of low-income families.

Conclusion

The poverty level in New Hampshire requires continued monitoring and analysis. This comprehensive understanding of poverty and its complexities allows for the creation of effective and sustainable solutions to reduce poverty and improve the overall well-being of residents.

Expert Answer:

The poverty rate in New Hampshire, while generally lower than national averages, is not static. Analysis of longitudinal data from the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey, incorporating adjustments for inflation and family size, is essential for an accurate assessment. Further refinement requires disaggregated analysis by geographic region, demographic group, and other relevant socioeconomic factors. It's important to note that the official poverty measure may undercount the incidence of poverty, and alternative measures such as the Supplemental Poverty Measure (SPM) offer valuable supplementary insights.

What is the impact of the 2024 Federal Poverty Level on government assistance programs for single individuals?

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Detailed Answer: The 2024 Federal Poverty Level (FPL) significantly impacts government assistance programs for single individuals by determining eligibility for various aid programs. The FPL is a crucial threshold; those with incomes below it are generally eligible for benefits like Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), housing assistance, and others. A higher FPL means fewer people qualify, and vice-versa. The impact varies depending on the specific program, as some programs may use a percentage of the FPL (e.g., 138% or 150%) as their eligibility cutoff. Changes in the FPL can lead to people losing or gaining access to vital services affecting their healthcare, food security, and housing stability. Moreover, changes to the FPL can influence the budget allocated for these programs, potentially impacting the services provided. The FPL adjustments are typically made annually, reflecting changes in the cost of living. Consequently, the 2024 FPL adjustments will lead to ripple effects across the social safety net for single individuals.

Simple Answer: The 2024 FPL determines who qualifies for government help like food stamps, Medicaid, and housing assistance. A higher FPL means fewer people get help; a lower one means more people get help.

Casual Reddit Style: Yo, so the 2024 FPL is a big deal for peeps who need govt. assistance. It's like the magic number that decides if you qualify for stuff like food stamps and Medicaid. Higher FPL? Fewer people get help. Lower FPL? More get help. It's a pretty significant deal for single people struggling to make ends meet.

SEO Style Article:

Understanding the Impact of the 2024 Federal Poverty Level on Government Assistance

The Federal Poverty Level (FPL) plays a critical role in determining eligibility for various government assistance programs in the United States. This level is recalculated annually and significantly impacts the lives of millions of Americans, particularly single individuals who rely on these programs for essential support.

How the FPL Impacts Single Individuals

The FPL serves as the primary benchmark for determining eligibility for a wide range of programs including Medicaid, SNAP (food stamps), housing assistance, and more. Single individuals whose income falls below the established FPL are typically eligible for these benefits. A rise in the FPL can lead to a decrease in the number of eligible individuals, resulting in potential reductions in access to vital resources.

The Significance of the 2024 FPL Adjustment

The annual adjustment of the FPL is a key indicator of the economic climate and the needs of the population. The 2024 adjustments will have a direct impact on the number of single individuals who qualify for essential government assistance programs. This impact has far-reaching implications for healthcare, nutrition, and housing security. Any significant changes to the FPL necessitate careful analysis and understanding of the potential consequences.

Conclusion

The 2024 FPL will undoubtedly have a profound impact on the lives of many single individuals. Understanding the effects of this adjustment is crucial for both policymakers and those who rely on government assistance programs for support.

Expert Answer: The annual revision of the Federal Poverty Level significantly affects the resource allocation and eligibility criteria for numerous safety-net programs catering to single individuals. The 2024 FPL acts as a crucial parameter, defining access to essential services like Medicaid and SNAP benefits. An upward adjustment in the FPL can lead to a decline in program enrollment, thereby potentially impacting public health and economic stability among vulnerable populations. Economically sensitive adjustments are essential to ensure the effectiveness of these programs in mitigating poverty and promoting social well-being.

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What are the political debates surrounding poverty level income?

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Detailed Answer:

The issue of poverty-level income sparks intense political debate, centering on its causes, consequences, and most effective solutions. Several key areas of contention include:

  • Causes of Poverty: Debates rage over whether poverty is primarily caused by individual failings (lack of work ethic, poor choices), systemic inequalities (discrimination, lack of opportunity, inadequate social safety nets), or a combination of both. Conservatives often emphasize individual responsibility, while liberals highlight societal structures and the need for government intervention.
  • Minimum Wage: The minimum wage is a central point of contention. Proponents argue that raising it significantly alleviates poverty by providing a living wage, while opponents worry about job losses, business closures, and inflation. Empirical evidence on the effects of minimum wage increases remains contested.
  • Social Safety Nets: Disagreements exist regarding the appropriate role and scope of government assistance programs like food stamps (SNAP), housing assistance, and unemployment benefits. Conservatives tend to favor targeted programs with strict eligibility requirements, while liberals advocate for more expansive and universal programs to create a stronger social safety net.
  • Taxation and Wealth Redistribution: Debates over taxation focus on whether progressive taxation (higher taxes on higher earners) is necessary to fund social programs aimed at poverty reduction and wealth redistribution. Conservatives often argue for lower taxes and reduced government spending, while liberals advocate for progressive taxation to fund social programs and address wealth inequality.
  • Healthcare Access: Access to affordable healthcare is significantly linked to poverty. Debates arise concerning universal healthcare coverage versus the existing system, with liberals championing universal access as a poverty-reduction strategy and conservatives often emphasizing market-based solutions and individual responsibility for healthcare costs.
  • Education and Job Training: The role of education and job training in addressing poverty is another significant point of debate. Liberals generally support increased funding for education and job training programs to provide opportunities for upward mobility, while conservatives may emphasize vocational training and private-sector solutions.

These debates are often framed within broader ideological viewpoints, influencing policy preferences and the prioritization of different approaches to poverty reduction.

Simple Answer:

Political debates about poverty-level income revolve around the causes of poverty (individual vs. systemic), minimum wage, social safety nets, taxation, healthcare access, and education/job training. Differing perspectives on individual responsibility vs. government intervention shape these debates.

Casual Answer (Reddit Style):

OMG, the poverty line debates are WILD. It's always conservatives vs. liberals, right? Cons want people to pull themselves up by their bootstraps, while libs are all about government handouts and raising the minimum wage. Then there's the whole healthcare thing – affordable care acts are a HUGE point of contention. It's a never-ending cycle of arguments and no real solutions, tbh.

SEO Article Style Answer:

The Political Landscape of Poverty-Level Income

Understanding the Core Issues

Poverty-level income is a multifaceted issue with deep-seated political implications. This article explores the key areas of contention surrounding this critical social and economic concern. The debate often centers on the relative roles of individual responsibility versus systemic factors. Conservatives frequently highlight the importance of personal choices and work ethic, while liberals emphasize structural inequalities, discrimination, and the need for robust government support.

Minimum Wage: A Battleground Issue

The debate surrounding minimum wage is fierce and central to discussions of poverty reduction. Proponents of a higher minimum wage argue it provides a living wage and combats poverty, while opponents express concerns about job losses and economic consequences. Empirical evidence on the impact of minimum wage hikes continues to fuel the debate.

Social Safety Nets: Scope and Effectiveness

The design and effectiveness of social safety nets are frequently debated. Conservatives favor targeted programs with strict eligibility criteria, whereas liberals advocate for expansive, universal programs to guarantee a basic safety net for all. This divergence reflects differing perspectives on government intervention and social responsibility.

Taxation and Wealth Distribution: A Source of Contention

Taxation policies play a significant role in debates about poverty. Progressive taxation—higher taxes on higher earners—is often proposed as a means to fund poverty-reduction initiatives and address wealth inequality. Conversely, conservatives typically advocate for lower taxes and reduced government spending.

Healthcare and Poverty: An Intertwined Reality

Access to affordable healthcare is inextricably linked to poverty. The political debate on healthcare reform frequently includes discussions about universal healthcare versus market-based systems, highlighting the complexities of providing healthcare to low-income individuals.

Conclusion: Navigating Complexities

Addressing poverty-level income requires a multifaceted approach, recognizing the interplay between individual circumstances and societal structures. Understanding the diverse political perspectives is essential for developing effective and sustainable solutions.

Expert Answer:

The political discourse surrounding poverty-level income reflects fundamental disagreements regarding the nature of poverty itself, the efficacy of government intervention, and the balance between individual responsibility and societal obligations. While economic analyses may offer insights into the effectiveness of specific policies, the ultimate choices often reflect deeply held ideological beliefs. These debates often involve complex tradeoffs, with limited consensus on the optimal path toward poverty reduction. This lack of consensus underscores the challenge of crafting policy that effectively addresses both the symptoms and root causes of poverty within a diverse and dynamic political landscape.

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What are some potential solutions to reduce poverty in New Hampshire?

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Detailed Answer: Poverty in New Hampshire, while lower than the national average, still affects a significant portion of the population. Addressing this complex issue requires a multi-pronged approach. One key strategy is investing in education and workforce development. This includes expanding access to affordable, high-quality early childhood education, improving K-12 education, particularly in underserved communities, and providing job training programs that equip individuals with in-demand skills. Furthermore, affordable housing is a critical component. The lack of affordable housing options forces many families to spend a disproportionate amount of their income on rent, leaving little for other necessities. Initiatives aimed at increasing the supply of affordable housing, including subsidies and incentives for developers, are essential. Another crucial element is access to healthcare. The cost of healthcare can be crippling, pushing families further into poverty. Expanding access to affordable healthcare, including Medicaid expansion and affordable health insurance options, is vital. Finally, increasing the minimum wage to a living wage and strengthening worker protections can help ensure that low-wage workers earn enough to meet their basic needs. These solutions should be implemented in coordination with robust social safety nets, such as food assistance programs and affordable transportation options.

Simple Answer: To reduce poverty in New Hampshire, we need to improve education and job training, increase access to affordable housing and healthcare, and raise the minimum wage.

Casual Reddit Style Answer: Yo, NH poverty's a thing, even if it's not as bad as some places. We gotta pump up education and job training – give peeps skills that actually pay. Affordable housing is a HUGE deal; rent's insane. Better healthcare access is a must, and a livable minimum wage would seriously help. Let's get this done!

SEO Style Answer:

Tackling Poverty in New Hampshire: A Comprehensive Approach

The Challenge of Poverty in the Granite State

New Hampshire, despite its reputation for economic prosperity, faces the persistent challenge of poverty. Understanding the complexities of this issue is crucial to developing effective solutions. This article explores potential strategies to reduce poverty in the state and improve the lives of its residents.

Investing in Education and Workforce Development

Education is a cornerstone of economic opportunity. By investing in high-quality early childhood education, improving K-12 education, and providing targeted job training programs, New Hampshire can equip its citizens with the skills necessary to secure well-paying jobs. This includes focusing on STEM education and vocational training to meet the demands of the modern workforce.

Addressing the Affordable Housing Crisis

The lack of affordable housing is a major driver of poverty. Incentivizing the development of affordable housing, providing rental assistance, and protecting tenants' rights are critical steps to address this pressing issue. Innovative solutions, such as community land trusts, can also play a significant role.

Expanding Access to Healthcare

Access to affordable and quality healthcare is essential for economic stability. Expanding Medicaid coverage, increasing access to affordable health insurance options, and investing in preventative healthcare can significantly improve the health and well-being of low-income families.

Raising the Minimum Wage

Raising the minimum wage to a living wage can help ensure that low-wage workers earn enough to meet their basic needs and contribute to the economic growth of the state. This policy change must be accompanied by broader efforts to strengthen worker protections.

Conclusion

A multifaceted approach that combines investments in education, affordable housing, healthcare, and a living wage is essential to effectively combat poverty in New Hampshire and create a more equitable and prosperous future for all its residents.

Expert Answer: The reduction of poverty in New Hampshire necessitates a comprehensive strategy that addresses systemic issues. Focusing solely on individual responsibility ignores the structural factors perpetuating poverty, such as inadequate access to quality education, healthcare, and affordable housing. A multi-faceted approach involving significant investment in human capital through education and workforce development initiatives, alongside affordable housing solutions, and healthcare accessibility programs, is crucial. Further, policy interventions such as a living wage and strengthened worker protections are essential. These actions must be implemented with meticulous data collection and ongoing evaluation to ensure their effectiveness and responsiveness to the dynamic needs of the population.

question_category: "Politics and Society"

How does poverty affect the economy of New Hampshire?

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From a macroeconomic perspective, poverty in New Hampshire represents a significant drag on the state's economic potential. The reduced tax base due to lower incomes, the increased demand for social services, and the associated rise in crime-related expenditures all contribute to a less efficient allocation of resources. This necessitates a nuanced policy response that tackles not only the symptoms of poverty, but also the underlying structural factors that perpetuate it, focusing on investments in human capital, infrastructure, and economic diversification to cultivate a more equitable and robust economic environment for all residents.

Poverty reduces New Hampshire's overall economic productivity and increases healthcare and crime-related costs.

How does the poverty level in Maryland vary across different geographic areas?

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Poverty in Maryland exhibits significant geographic disparities. The state's poverty rate, while lower than the national average, masks considerable variations across counties and regions. Generally, counties on the Eastern Shore and in Southern Maryland tend to have higher poverty rates compared to those in the more affluent suburban areas surrounding Washington, D.C., and Baltimore. Factors contributing to these disparities include differences in employment opportunities, educational attainment, access to healthcare, and the availability of affordable housing. For example, rural counties on the Eastern Shore often lack the diverse job market found in urban centers, leading to lower incomes and higher poverty rates. Conversely, counties in the Baltimore-Washington corridor benefit from a robust economy and a concentration of high-paying jobs, resulting in lower poverty. However, even within these wealthier areas, pockets of poverty exist, often in urban cores or isolated communities with limited access to resources. Analyzing data from the U.S. Census Bureau, which provides county-level poverty statistics, offers a more granular understanding of these regional variations. Furthermore, researchers and policymakers often examine these disparities through the lens of social determinants of health, considering factors like housing quality, transportation access, and environmental conditions that impact overall well-being and contribute to poverty.

The geographical distribution of poverty in Maryland is not uniform. Disparities arise from complex interactions of socioeconomic factors, including access to employment, education, and healthcare. Areas with limited job diversification and infrastructure often display heightened poverty rates compared to those with robust economies and readily available resources. A nuanced understanding of these local conditions is critical for the strategic allocation of resources to promote equitable development and social mobility throughout the state.

What resources are available for those living below the poverty level in Oklahoma?

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Oklahoma offers a range of resources for those living below the poverty level. These resources can be broadly categorized into several key areas:

1. Public Assistance Programs:

  • Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): Provides food assistance benefits to eligible low-income individuals and families. Application and eligibility information can be found on the Oklahoma Human Services website.
  • Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF): Offers temporary cash assistance and support services to families with children. Eligibility requirements and application procedures are available through the Oklahoma Human Services Department.
  • Medicaid: Provides healthcare coverage for low-income Oklahomans. The application process and eligibility criteria are detailed on the Oklahoma Health Care Authority website.
  • Women, Infants, and Children (WIC): Provides supplemental food, healthcare referrals, and nutrition education to pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding women, as well as infants and children up to age five.
  • Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): Helps low-income families pay for their energy bills during the heating and cooling seasons. Information on eligibility and how to apply can be found through the Oklahoma Department of Human Services.

2. Housing Assistance:

  • Oklahoma Housing Finance Agency (OHFA): Offers various housing programs, including rental assistance, homeownership assistance, and down payment assistance for low-income families. Their website provides detailed information on available programs.
  • Public Housing Authorities: Local housing authorities across the state administer public housing and Section 8 voucher programs. Contact your local housing authority to learn about available programs in your area.

3. Employment and Training Programs:

  • Oklahoma Employment Security Commission (OESC): Provides job search assistance, training programs, and unemployment benefits to Oklahomans seeking employment.
  • Local Workforce Development Boards: Offer a range of workforce development services, including job training, employment placement assistance, and career counseling.

4. Food Banks and Pantries:

  • Regional Food Banks: Several regional food banks across Oklahoma distribute food to local food pantries and other agencies serving those in need. These resources can provide supplemental food assistance to those facing food insecurity.

5. Community Action Agencies:

  • Community Action Agencies: Located throughout the state, these agencies provide a wide range of services, often including emergency assistance, housing assistance, and other support services to low-income individuals and families.

Finding Help:

To find the specific programs and services available in your area, you can start by visiting the Oklahoma Human Services website (okhhs.org) or by contacting 2-1-1, a statewide helpline that provides information and referral services for a wide range of human service needs.

Finding Resources for Low-Income Individuals in Oklahoma

Navigating the complexities of poverty can be daunting, especially when trying to identify and access available resources. This article offers a comprehensive guide to assist those living below the poverty line in Oklahoma.

Public Assistance Programs

Oklahoma offers various public assistance programs designed to provide financial and material support. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides food assistance, while Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) offers temporary cash assistance. Medicaid ensures healthcare access, and the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program supports nutrition for vulnerable families. The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps with energy bills.

Housing Assistance

Affordable housing is a critical need. The Oklahoma Housing Finance Agency (OHFA) offers programs including rental and homeownership assistance. Local Public Housing Authorities also provide crucial housing solutions.

Employment and Training

The Oklahoma Employment Security Commission (OESC) offers job search assistance and training opportunities, helping individuals secure employment and improve their financial stability.

Food Banks and Community Support

A network of food banks and pantries provides critical food assistance. Community Action Agencies also offer a wide range of services to address poverty-related challenges.

Accessing Support

Begin your search by visiting the Oklahoma Human Services website or contacting 2-1-1 for comprehensive information and referrals.

This comprehensive guide should help you locate appropriate resources in Oklahoma.

Which demographics are most affected by poverty in New Hampshire?

Answers

Children, single mothers, racial/ethnic minorities, people with disabilities, and residents of rural areas.

Poverty in New Hampshire disproportionately affects several key demographics. Children are significantly more likely to live in poverty than adults; families headed by single mothers face a considerably higher poverty rate than those with two parents or those headed by single fathers. Racial and ethnic minorities, particularly those identifying as Black or Hispanic, experience higher poverty rates than the state's White population. Individuals with disabilities also have a substantially higher risk of poverty due to limitations in employment opportunities and access to resources. Geographic location plays a critical role as well; poverty rates tend to be markedly higher in rural areas and some urban centers compared to more affluent suburbs and towns. The elderly, while not always the largest group, are still a vulnerable demographic facing higher poverty rates than other age groups, especially those lacking sufficient retirement savings or social security benefits.