G. Unemployment

Food insecurity negatively impacts health outcomes—a statement supported by multiple studies. The Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University stated that “inadequate nutrition can permanently alter a child’s brain architecture and stunt their intellectual capacity, affecting the child’s learning, social interaction, and productivity. Children who do not receive what they need for strong, healthy brain development during early childhood may never recover their lost potential for cognitive growth and eventual contributions to society.”

UNEMPLOYMENT

Unemployment is a relevant indicator as unemployment creates financial instability and barriers to access including insurance coverage, health services, healthy food, and other necessities that contribute to poor health status. Unemployment status can be a stressor for individuals and their families. According to California Employment Development Department Bureau of Labor Statistics, Orange County’s unemployment rate was 3.0% in August 2019. This is less than the California (4.2%) and national (3.8%) rate.

9.0%

8.0%

7.0%

6.0%

5.0%

4.0%

3.0%

2.0%

1.0%

0.0%

Unemployment Rate, 2014-2019 YTD

8.3%

5.5% 8.0%

6.4% 7.5%

4.5% 6.6% 6.4% 5.2% 6.2%

4.0% 5.3% 5.8% 4.7% 5.5%

3.5% 4.8% 4.9% 4.0% 4.8%

3.1% 5.0% 4.3% 3.5% 4.3% 3.0% 4.7% 4.1% 3.4% 4.2%

2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 YTD

Orange County Los Angeles County San Bernardino County San Diego County California

Source: State of California, Employment Development Department, 2014-2019 YTD