Tucson Standard

Tucson is grappling with persistent intergenerational poverty, despite the presence of various assistance programs. University of Arizona students have highlighted service gaps that leave critical needs unmet for low-income residents. The students presented their findings at the eighth annual community forum of the Poverty in Tucson Field Workshop, held on December 17 at Habitat for Humanity.

The workshop, initiated in 2015 by the U of A School of Sociology, involves students gathering data from low-income households across Tucson and Pima County. In collaboration with the city and Habitat for Humanity, 44 students participated in this hands-on course during 2024.

The project focused on neighborhoods such as the 29th Street Thrive Zone and Thrive in the 05 Zone. Students interviewed 350 residents and applicants on a Housing Choice Voucher waiting list with 20,000 people. Findings revealed that 42% experience food insecurity and 74% face unaffordable housing costs.

"The service gap we observe every year... seems to have grown larger," said Brian Mayer, professor of sociology and director of the Tucson Poverty Project. He noted that while federal aid helped renters during the pandemic, funds are now exhausted as Arizona struggles to meet demand.

"Rents are still increasing, and wages are largely stagnant," Mayer added. The survey indicated an average rent increase of $200 per year.

Kevin Dahl, Ward 3 council member, praised the workshop as a resource addressing housing affordability issues: "These are highly educated folks who are starting to tackle... how do we affordably house people?"

Accessing services remains challenging due to application process barriers and insufficient outreach. "Accessing social services is very difficult," Mayer stated. Student Alysse Razo found nearly half reported high utility costs but faced prohibitive processes accessing assistance.

Public transportation issues also emerged as barriers to food access. Student Alexia Boswell shared an account where a participant struggled with bus schedules to reach grocery stores.

Madison Rutherford highlighted additional service barriers like language difficulties and technology access: "Not everyone has access to the internet or technology required."

Nghishawn Nguyen noted only 48% felt they were making enough money to get by; just 23% had savings left monthly.

Mayer emphasized improving service access through community hubs: "This could involve integrating social services at community hubs like hospitals or food banks."

Razo plans further studies in social work after gaining skills from this project: "It's about figuring out what their needs are and connecting them to services."