Equal Income Begins With Equal Opportunity

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution has reported that, according to the most recent Census data, Atlanta has the highest income inequality of any city in the US. The median household income for Black families in Atlanta is $28,000, as opposed to $84,000 for white families. And when you consider the disparity in geographic terms, it becomes even more apparent (think northwest Atlanta versus anything south of I-20).

Experts cite Atlanta’s long history of racial inequality as a potential cause, the effects of which have been exacerbated by the pandemic and high inflation. But despite high income inequality, Atlanta also shows signs of strong economic growth, ranking among the country’s best places to do business. 

This is puzzling, but also cause for some hope. It suggests that one important way of addressing income inequality is ensuring equal access to the many opportunities Atlanta has to offer.

Our Lokey Help Center provides a ladder to economic success by stabilizing individuals in crisis and supporting opportunities for increased household income. And in addition to our own programs, which support economic success and multi-generational education, Emmaus House partners with numerous organizations to provide job training, economic support, and life-stabilization services. 

Income inequality may describe our present, but it does not have to define our future. With engaged support, we can close the income gap one person at a time.