From food to transportation, it has become harder than ever to budget for basic needs as costs increase, according to the latest edition of the Self-Sufficiency Standard for Pennsylvania 2008, released in Harrisburg on Wednesday, June 18th, 2008.

The report defines a county-specific self-sufficiency wage, which is the income at which a family can cover its costs without choosing between basic necessities such as childcare versus nutritional food, adequate housing versus healthcare, and is on the road to economic independence. As a measure, the Standard provides a more accurate picture than do federal poverty guidelines on the economic needs of working families.

For the first time in publishing the Standard, PathWaysPA has partnered with the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry to produce this Standard. The United Way of Southeastern Pennsylvania has also provided funding and support on this publication.

The 6th edition of the Self-Sufficiency Standard for Pennsylvania 2008 was developed by Diana M. Pearce, Ph.D., director for the Center for Women’s Welfare, University of Washington School of Social Work. It was prepared by university staff along with Carol Goertzel and Marianne Bellesorte of PathWaysPA.