NEWS RELEASE

In keeping with the Labor Day holiday spirit, Step Up Florida is planning an awareness rally on September 4, from 4-5 p.m. Labor Day was established to pay tribute to the contributions and achievements of American workers. It was created by the labor movement in the late 19th century and became a federal holiday in 1894.

The purpose of the rally is to help focus attention on those who work, but can’t make a living wage in our community.

According to the United Way of Florida’s ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) Report, whichwas released in December 2014, 30% of ALICE/working families in Indian River County do not make enough in wages to cover the most basic household budget and another 14% live below the federal poverty line.

If you wish to join in to share information about how poverty affects our neighbors and come together to show we care, the group will gather at 4 p.m. at the south side of the Merrill Barber Bridge, adjacent to Vero Beach’s Riverside Park. Signs will be provided by Step Up Florida.

Students may receive Community Service Hours for pariticipation through Harvest Food & Outreach Center, a 501c3 nonprofit organization and event sponsor. Students are responsible to bring their own paperwork.

Step Up Florida is a statewide advocacy campaign to help bring awareness to the issue of poverty in Florida. Visit stepupFlorida.org for more information visit StepUpFlorida.org.