According to recent estimates, more than 70% of female-headed households lack access to liquid assets such as emergency cash or credit in times of need. Liquid assets support a household's ability to manage unpredictable changes in income and expenses. Aside from the economic benefits, however, to what extent does having access to resources affect subjective well-being? This study explored the effects of access to liquid assets on unmarried mothers' life satisfaction using data from the Fragile Families and Child Wellbeing Study. Controlling for socioeconomic status, health, and financial situation, unmarried mothers with even limited access to liquid assets (compared to no access) had 61% higher odds of being satisfied with life; mothers with greater access had 182% higher odds. This study provides evidence for safety net programs that aim to improve access to liquid assets in this group.

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Nearly 6 million workers support the multi-billion-dollar digital economy as one of the fastest-growing sectors in the U.S. labor market. Middle-skill jobs in the digital economy sector that pay higher wages and do not require a bachelor’s degree are underrepresented people of intersectional marginalized identities. This exploratory study builds upon previous research on digital inequities by examining the digital economy values, behavior, and interests of a small sample of residents in an area of Charlotte, North Carolina with known digital, social, and economic inequities. Analyses included descriptive and bivariate statistics. Given the exploratory nature of the study, no causal inferences are made, however, preliminary findings suggest a need for further research on digital skills training that addresses the intersectional barriers experienced in marginalized communities, and the need for place-based interventions that leverage localized policies in the areas of affordable housing, workforce development, and economic development. Implications and limitations are discussed.