In a recent presentation to the city council, Clackamas County Social Services highlighted the pressing issue of poverty in the region, revealing that a significant portion of the community struggles to meet basic needs despite being above the federal poverty level. Brenda Durbin, the director of Clackamas County Social Services, and her colleague Jennifer Munchkrund discussed the findings from their latest community needs assessment, which indicated that 42% of households in Clackamas County fall below the ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) survival budget threshold.

The presentation coincided with the 60th anniversary of the Equal Opportunity Act and the 50th anniversary of Clackamas County's role as a Community Action Agency. Durbin emphasized the importance of community action in combating poverty, stating, \"Community action changes people's lives, embodies the spirit of hope, improves communities, and makes America a better place to live.\"

The assessment revealed that many residents, while technically above the federal poverty line, are still unable to afford basic necessities. The federal poverty level, which for a single adult in 2023 was set at just under $15,000, fails to accurately reflect the cost of living in Clackamas County. According to the ALICE survival budget, a single adult would need to earn approximately $47,772 annually to meet basic needs, highlighting a stark disparity between the federal measure and the actual economic realities faced by many residents.

The data also showed that certain demographics are disproportionately affected by poverty. Households led by individuals aged 25 or younger, seniors aged 65 and older, and single-parent households exhibited the highest percentages of those living below the ALICE threshold. Specifically, 78% of households led by individuals under 25 and 54% of households led by seniors were identified as struggling to meet their basic needs.

The findings underscore the need for a reevaluation of poverty measures and a renewed commitment to addressing the root causes of economic hardship in the community. Clackamas County Social Services aims to increase awareness and implement strategies to support those affected by poverty, ensuring that all community members have access to the resources they need to thrive.