Two-thirds of low-income Queens residents fear running out of money next month, survey finds

A volunteer distributes groceries at the St. Mark AME Church – The Voices of Hagar food pantry in Flushing May 12. AP Photo/Mary Altaffer

By David Brand

Eight weeks into the coronavirus economic shutdown, two-thirds of low-income Queens residents say they’re already facing a bleak financial future, a new poll finds.

A survey conducted by the nonprofit Public Health Solutions found that 67 percent of Queens residents are worried about running out of money in the next month. The survey defined “low-income” as households earning less than $50,000 year.

The outlook was more even dire among New Yorkers of color. Citywide, 82 percent of low-income black respondents, 92 percent of low-income Hispanic respondents and 95 percent of Asian low-income respondents say they are worried about running out of money. 

Public Health Solutions said the data indicates how the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated economic disparities for low-income New Yorkers, who account for a disproportionate number of confirmed cases.

The survey also found that 43 percent of Queens respondents said that they or someone in their household had been laid off or seen a significant reduction in hours and/or pay since March 1. Another 10 percent said it is likely that a layoff or hour reduction will occur.

Roughly 63 percent of Queens respondents said they worry about getting enough food for themselves and their families.