The couple is part of a growing number of Americans who live above the federal poverty line but struggle to afford basic necessities.
The poverty line isn't adjusted to reflect cost-of-living differences in individual cities or states and is set at $20,440 a year for a family of two.
Binkley is trying to "make ends meet," hopes to leave Minnesota one dayPrimarily, Binkley said she struggles with her rent and utility bills.
AdvertisementFor food, Binkley said she is especially thankful for her local food pantries, where she often goes to pick up canned goods.
"That is one thing that keeps driving me to make my payments, get things caught up, and set a little bit aside each week or each month, Binkley said.
Persons:
—, Melinda Binkley, she's, Binkley, doesn't, ALICE, She's
Organizations:
Service, Business, Survey, United Way's, Medicare
Locations:
Stillwater , Minnesota, Minnesota, Idaho