Daley said he's noticed a gradual increase over the years in the number of single mothers that utilize the church's services. Special job training would be useful because it could help these women obtain jobs that pay above minimum wage, he said. Even though many women are criticized for using social services, some are able to provide a better life through public assistance, he said. That's up 887 from 1990. Rome also saw an increase of 100, with 1,255 out of 8,332 families run by females.
Demographers say families run by single mothers tend to be younger and poorer than other families.
The region in recent years has seen a surge of business at local food pantries and soup kitchens, even among people who are working. But Lucielle Soldato, deputy commissioner of Oneida County Social Services, said the number of cases involving single-parent families has actually dropped. She said she could not explain the reason for the decline. One single mom said it can be hard to stay afloat when you have to do everything on your own. Use of this site signifies your agreement to our Terms of Service.