Reducing our poverty rates is critical for our residents and the future of Wayne County.  Those living in lower socioeconomic status are associated with a variety of health risks that include, higher rates of cancer, diabetes, asthma, mental illness, and more.  Additionally, poverty-stricken residents have a shorter life expectancy.  The reality is poverty affects all aspects of a community, from our neighborhoods to the businesses we can attract.  We believe taking a multiple-pronged approach to address poverty is our best path forward.