Poverty is linked to negative health outcomes. Income is an important aspect when considering the cost of safe housing, nutritious food, education, transportation, and health services. People who are considered 200% below the federal poverty level are 20% more likely to rate themselves in fair or poor health, have higher rates of obesity, and are more likely to smoke. Poor housing conditions correlate with poor health conditions of low-income children such as asthma from factors such as mold or elevated lead levels from dated paint.  

We identified some factors that influence poverty rates and can lead to health disparities in Franklin County: 

• Cost of Housing - High costs of homeownership with a mortgage can strain homeowners. In Franklin County, the median housing costs for homeowners with a mortgage is $1,250. 

  

• Educational Attainment - Graduating from high school is essential for an individual’s social and economic advancement. Having a bachelor’s degree opens career opportunities in a variety of fields and is often a prerequisite for higher-paying jobs. In Franklin County, the percent of residents aged 25 or older with a high school degree or higher was lower (86.2%) than the state of North Carolina value (87.8%). The percentage of the population with a bachelor's degree or higher in Franklin County was lower (22%) compared to North Carolina (31.3%).  

• Severe Housing Problems - Safe and affordable housing is an essential component of healthy communities, and the effects of housing problems are widespread. Housing problems include overcrowding, high housing costs, lack of kitchen, or lack of plumbing facilities. Slightly more than 13.0% of households in Franklin County had severe housing problems.  

Below are some key partners that play an important role in addressing social determinants of health, like youth poverty rates in Franklin County:  

Franklin County Schools - Franklin County Schools is comprised of 16 schools and serves 7,900+ students from the communities within Franklin County. Franklin County Schools will cultivate a dynamic learning environment focused on success beyond the classroom; preparing, inspiring and illuminating the path so that all students will reach their full potential.    

Franklin County Social Services - The Franklin County Department of Social Services administers some 36 different programs.  These programs and the staffing to support the programs are primarily funded by Federal and State dollars, in addition to grant and county funds. The agency strives to meet the needs of all people in the county through the delivery of services targeted towards children, families, blind, disabled, and the elderly.  Their staff is dedicated to the management of the resources entrusted to the agency and to the enhancement of the quality of life of our people.   

Franklin-Granville-Vance Smart Start, Inc. - FGV Smart Start has a mission to advance and advocate for a high quality, comprehensive, accountable system of care and education for children ages 0 to 5 which builds a foundation leading to a productive and successful life.  

Safe Space, Inc. - Safe Space is a non-profit organization that is committed to reducing relationship violence and sexual assault in Franklin County, North Carolina and nearby communities. Safe Space, Inc. offers a variety of services like court advocacy, sexual assault advocacy, an emergency shelter, support groups, community education, and resource referrals.  

Franklin County United Way - The United Way of Franklin County brings the people and resources of the community together to help and support those in need. They are committed to children's welfare, the elderly, education, and families. They unite small businesses and corporations, community groups, governments, schools and Franklin County residents to respond to needs as they arise locally. Their mission is to unite people and resources to build a strong community network focused on improving the quality of life by effectively addressing the health, social services and educational needs of the people of Franklin County. 

The Healthy NC 2030 report identifies levers for change to address poverty that reflect the developing efforts in Franklin County:  

• Improve 3rd grade reading proficiency, high school graduation rates, and support and strengthen the community college system 

• Improve teen pregnancy prevention 

• Focus economic development on well-paying jobs