Contact: Molly Crisp
Missouri Foundation for Health
(314) 345-5579
mcrisp@mffh.org
ST. LOUIS, MO (November 5, 2024) – As Missourians head to the polls today, new insights from the third Speak Up MO report underscore how essential economic stability is to the health and well-being of communities across the state. Released by Missouri Foundation for Health, the findings reveal that while many residents remain hopeful about their local economy, the rising costs of essentials and the scarcity of quality jobs are leading to economic strain negatively impacting Missouri families.
This report is the latest in a series from the Speak Up MO public opinion poll. Previous findings highlighted Missourians’ views on their communities and challenges they face in finding affordable health care.
The survey found that while over half of Missourians (59%) feel financially comfortable, few are able to save, leaving many vulnerable to unexpected financial hardships. Nearly a quarter reported being unable to afford food at least once in the past year, and close to 10% faced eviction during the same period.
“Today, voters will have a chance to make their voice heard on raising the minimum wage and earned paid sick leave, which directly address the struggles we see across Missouri,” said Sheldon Weisgrau, Vice President of Health Policy and Advocacy at Missouri Foundation for Health. “We’ve learned that when families feel economically stable, their health improves, stress reduces, and communities become stronger. It’s clear that Missourians are looking for solutions that ensure everyone can meet basic needs and build a stable future.”
Focus group participants noted the difficulty of balancing family needs with rising costs and the pressures of low-wage jobs. One mother shared, “The cost of groceries, gas, everything is going up, and pay isn’t increasing. We’re working two jobs just to keep up, and still have to afford getting the kids to school and events.” This sentiment echoes broader findings in the report, with two-thirds of Missourians indicating that the lack of good, well-paying jobs is a critical issue.
The report also underscores the mental and physical toll financial insecurity has on Missourians. Participants noted the connection between a strong local economy, secure jobs, and the ability to afford health care, food, and housing. When these elements are lacking, financial stress can quickly escalate, affecting health outcomes across the state.
“Your financial security is probably one of the number one drivers of mental health issues,” shared a participant from Springfield. “[When] you are financially secure, [there’s] less stress, less frustration.”
As Missouri Foundation for Health and other groups work to build a future that supports all working families, today’s vote will be a step toward understanding how policy can better reflect the needs and aspirations of Missourians.
The next and final Speak Up MO 2024 report focuses on what Missourians believe will make their communities healthier and identifies the actions they feel will have the greatest impact.
Read the report.
To learn more about the poll, visit Speak Up MO.
Previous reports
How Missourians View Their Communities
Health Care and Mental Health
