Background
Historically, efforts to assist low-income communities have primarily focused on short-term relief and transitional support, including food assistance, temporary housing, and primary healthcare. However, the present situation requires a revolutionary approach. The present measures are crucial for immediate survival, but do not address the root causes of poverty or provide sustainable pathways for long-term economic and social elevation – the lack of skills.
HIGH SCHOOL/COLLEGE DROP-OUT RATE. The 2022-2023 academic year saw a high school dropout rate of 13%, which limited economic opportunities for many young individuals [Source: dpi.NC.gov]. The total number of high school dropouts from 2019 through 2023 is estimated at 2,169 students across four school terms. This yearly dropout rate harms workforce readiness.
Sixty percent of high school graduates in Forsyth County pursue secondary education. However, only 31.9% of those entering college obtain a college degree, leaving a significant portion of the population without the necessary skills and qualifications for stable employment.
POVERTY RATES. As of 2023, the poverty rate for unemployed and undereducated individuals in Winston-Salem stands at 44.2%. In other words, almost half of the people in the city without jobs live below the poverty line, struggling to afford essentials such as housing, food, and healthcare.
HOMELESSNESS. In 2024, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, experienced a significant increase in homelessness. The annual Point-in-Time (PIT) count, conducted each January, reported 627 individuals experiencing homelessness in the city, marking a 58% rise from 396 individuals in 2023.
CRIME RATES. The overall 2024 non-violent crime rate in Winston-Salem is 5,069 incidents per 100,000 residents, approximately 118% higher than the national average. The burglary rate is approximately 9.6 incidents per 1,000 residents, about 2.6 times the national average.
The solution is not simply to allocate more city and county resources to manage the problem, but to invest in long-term, sustainable strategies that address the root causes to break the cycle of poverty and unemployment.
Low-income communities often face a cycle of survival and recurring challenges in meeting their basic needs. The New Hope Resource Center is deeply committed to breaking this cycle by providing access to knowledge of resources and skills training, opening up entrepreneurial opportunities, and empowering individuals to improve their lives. Our dedication is unwavering.
The New Hope Resource Center, a 501© (3) nonprofit organization, is dedicated to transforming low-income areas into thriving communities. Our purpose is comprehensive, covering facets of empowerment for individuals and families through a wide range of services, educational programs, and economic development initiatives, providing a solid foundation for their journey toward prosperity.