Dear Editor:
I moved to Jersey City in February from the outer suburbs in order to start a business that helps jobseekers find employment. Jersey City’s proximity to New York City, with its large entrepreneurial community and financial resources made it an appealing location logistically. But you cannot live here long without falling in love with the wonderful, caring people who are everywhere and striving to make a difference in their community. This is a difficult time for the nation and New Jersey in particular. According to research by United Way, 30 percent of the people in New Jersey, 1.1 million people live in households earning too little to provide the basic necessities. They are ALICE: asset limited, income constrained, employed. Twenty-five percent of Hudson county residents are ALICE. Despite working, often at more than one job, they earn too little for a sustainable lifestyle. No matter how hard these individuals work, they’re not going to make it and their kids, your neighbors, and our community will pay the price in the long run. Sixteen percent of the county citizens fall below the poverty line. This is a serious challenge that requires government to think creatively and resourcefully. The public has the right to demand that its government be open to change and collaboration. Cronyism must be displaced by more efficient ways to use and grow our assets to benefit our people. I believe that Steven Fulop offers Jersey City its best opportunity to accomplish this mission.
Sincerely,
Melanie Dunn