According to USDA, "rates of food insecurity in 2022 were statistically significantly higher than the national average (12.8 percent)" for several groups, including "households with children headed by a single female (i.e., single mothers, labeled “Female head, no spouse;” 33.1 percent) or a single male (i.e., single fathers, labeled “Male head, no spouse;” 21.2 percent)."
In the United States, over 23 million children live in a single-parent household. This total has been rising over the last half century and accounts for nearly one in every three children across the country. In Missouri, roughly 16% of households are led by a single-parent. Roughly 9.5% of Missouri households are led by a single female caregiver. This number is higher in metro counties (10.1%) compared to nonmetro counties (9.2%). Clark, Hickory, Ozark, and Schuyler counties had the fewest female led single-parent households (4%). The greatest proportion of female led single-parent households was found in the bootheel—Pemiscot (20%), Mississippi and New Madrid (17%) counties. In 2022, nearly 30% of single-parent families lived below the federal poverty level, compared to 6% of married couples. Research has shown that children with fewer economic, social, and parental resources, more family instability, and more adverse childhood experiences are at greater risk for poor educational outcomes. For more information contact Alan Spell or Luke Dietterle of Exceed - Regional Economic and Entrepreneurial Development.