NJ adults (with children) afraid they won’t make next rent or mortgage payment
Amid the coronavirus pandemic, families in New Jersey are doing better than those in some other states, according to a report released Monday by the Annie E. Casey Foundation. But “Kids, Families and COVID-19: Pandemic Pain Points and the Urgent Need to Respond” also highlights that many New Jersey families are struggling with elemental concerns — including how to get enough to eat and health issues.
Housing figures large as a source of worry for many: Data from the foundation’s Household Pulse Survey indicates that 19% of New Jersey adults in households with children have little or no confidence they can make their next rent or mortgage payment; the national figure is 18%. A press release accompanying the report noted the data reflects high housing costs in the Garden State, paired with recent widespread job losses for many. Before the pandemic, rent took up a big portion of many New Jersey households’ budgets. In 2019, 47% of New Jersey households spent 30% or more of their income on rent.