LANSING, Mich. (WLKI)- Nearly 68% of Michigan residents struggle to afford at least one basic need, according to a new report from the Georgetown Center on Poverty and Inequality.
The report examined whether residents could afford food, housing, health care and child care. More than one-third of Michiganders surveyed said they are struggling to cover more than one of those essential costs at the same time.
The findings reflect concerns voiced by residents who say everyday expenses, particularly housing, have become increasingly difficult to manage.
Kelly McCormick, a longtime Michigan resident, said he has watched affordability change over time. He said he noticed the difference most clearly while helping his 27-year-old son look for a home.
McCormick said homes in his son's price range often needed major repairs, while the monthly payments being considered were more than double what he paid for his own home decades earlier. He said he ultimately decided to help build a home for his son because he believed it was the only realistic path to ownership.
Rhonda and Tom Ash, who work through church outreach efforts, said they see the need firsthand. They said some people hesitate to ask for help because they are worried about being judged.
The couple encouraged neighbors to look out for one another, whether that means helping with small home repairs, yard work or other needs.
The report did not identify a single solution to the affordability challenges, but it highlighted the growing pressure facing working families as costs for housing, food, health care and child care continue to compete for household budgets.