College of Public Health and Human Sciences

Rural, low-income families face a multitude of challenges in their quest for economic security. This paper presents the major findings from two studies, Rural Families Speak and Rural Families Speak about Health, that highlight factors that contribute to the economic well-being of these families. These factors included employment challenges as well as the role of various types of support, such as public assistance programs, social and family networks, resource management skills, and the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC).

Policymakers should pay special attention to income needs of vulnerable families in the context of unique challenges of living in rural areas. Economically secure rural families are better prepared to play important roles in the viability and vitality of their communities. Policy implications and recommendations to improve families’ economic well-being are provided with this perspective in mind.