Step Up Savannah serves as a catalyst for change by attracting resources, developing and implementing effective programs, training community and nonprofit leaders, and advocating for policies that improve the lives of financially struggling families. As a convener, the organization works through a collaborative, community-driven approach, engaging a broad network of partners and its dedicated board of directors to create lasting solutions. By adapting programs to meet evolving needs, Step Up Savannah empowers individuals and families to achieve financial independence and long-term stability.

When we reference “poverty,” we align with the federal poverty threshold set for government programs. However, we recognize the limitations of this measurement, as it was established in the 1960s and does not fully reflect modern financial realities. The formula tends to overestimate the portion of a family’s budget required for food while underestimating the rising costs of housing, healthcare, and childcare. To provide a more accurate picture, we also consider the “self-sufficiency wage”—the income level at which individuals and families can afford essential needs such as housing, food, transportation, childcare, and healthcare without financial assistance.