Click here to view results of the PRI Poverty Insight Project survey. 

In November 2006, a survey of regional poverty was conducted by the Poverty Reduction Initiative (PRI) in an effort to improve understanding and services to this population.  Some 14,000 surveys were sent to residents of Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska and Leelanau counties, using mailing lists from human service agencies, and distributing surveys at homeless shelters, community meal sites, and local charities.

Over 1,600 respondents returned the questionnaire with almost 600 taking time to write additional comments. Many were grateful for an opportunity to be heard. "We learned there is no ‘typical' respondent," Survey coordinator Dr. Michael Collins said. "One surprise was to see such low wages despite a fairly high level of education." Collins is a volunteer with PRI and a physician with the Grand Traverse County Health Department.  Some results include the following:

Demographic Profile

• Most are women (80%);
• Most are long-term residents of the region (more than ten years);
• Most are living in small households (1-2 people, 0-1 children);
• Survey respondents are similar to general population's age and marital status.

Economic Profile

• Most have household incomes of less than $15,000 per year;
• Over 40% are employed; many working part-time and seeking more hours;
• Over half have education/training beyond high school; 25% have some college;
• Most own cars and live in houses or mobile homes with mortgage/rent payment;
• Most report no serious problem keeping a job, except those with major health problems, disabilities, or caring for special needs children or disabled family. 

Need for Services

• Many have significant health problems or disabilities that prevent them from working regularly;
• Most receive food assistance and Medicaid; both services are rated helpful;
• Coalition Health Access Program (CHAP) received grateful thanks;
• Most frequently mentioned unmet needs were for optical and dental care.