Indian River County By The Numbers

Record numbers of families are experiencing poverty along the Treasure Coast. According to the Florida Department of Children and Families, the number of families seeking public assistance has nearly doubled in just over 2 years.

With the average monthly SNAP benefit is $93 in St. Lucie County and $89 in Indian River County and unemployment rates hovering at 13.1% in both St. Lucie and Indian River Counties,** families need solutions to make ends meet. *

*According to the US Dept. of Agriculture’s Economic Research Center
** US Bureau of Labor Statistics

Stories From Our Neighbors

Margaret Ray came to Harvest seeking assistance with paying for a high cost prescription. She had lost her job and was caring for her two great nieces, whom she has custody of. Harvest was able to work with Margaret to cover the prescription and other medical costs.

Margaret then enrolled in the Harvest Passport to Prosperity Program to attain other life skills she felt were lacking in her life. She began attending classes while working with a caseworker to find employment. She recently completed the coursework needed to become a Certified Nursing Assistant and is working with Harvest to achieve more of her goals.

“Life is so much better now for us.”