Many people mistakenly believe that low-wage jobs in the food service industry are primarily occupied by teenagers or retirees seeking a little extra cash. However, data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics reveals that the average age of a food-service worker is 29. Additionally, a USA Today report highlights that over 25% of fast-food employees are the primary earners in their households. The old image of teenagers on roller skates delivering burgers is long outdated; today, it’s parents juggling multiple jobs to pay rent and provide for their families. These positions are no longer just a way for kids to earn pocket money.
Economists Sarah Johnson and Tom Mitchell from the Institute for Economic Research argue that raising wages for low-income workers benefits businesses overall. Higher pay boosts worker productivity, enhances customer satisfaction, and decreases employee turnover, all of which translate into financial gains for employers. This is promising news: when businesses see a return on their investment in employee wages, they are encouraged to offer better pay.
Now, let’s shift our focus from employers to the broader community. Increased wages positively impact entire families, especially children. According to Mitchell, parents earning higher salaries can create a more stable home environment by accumulating savings, reducing stress levels, and providing better health benefits. He also notes that when one parent has a decent-paying job, the other can take their time finding work that aligns with their skills and interests, rather than rushing into any available position.
Moreover, research indicates that higher wages correlate with better health outcomes. A 2012 study found that doubling one’s wage significantly decreased the likelihood of hypertension in individuals aged 25–44 by 25-30%. Healthy parents contribute to the well-being of their children, who thrive in stable homes where evictions are less likely and where meals are prepared with care rather than in the chaos of financial stress.
Children from unstable environments, marked by frequent relocations and school changes, often struggle academically. Those growing up in poverty face challenges that their middle-class peers do not, which adversely affects their educational performance.
In conclusion, raising wages is beneficial for both workers and businesses, but the true winners are the children—our future workforce and leaders.
For those interested in exploring family-building options, check out our other post on the at-home insemination kit and learn more about the process and success rates from this WebMD article.