211 Callers Struggling to Cover Basic Needs

Read the full CNN article on the big problem with what we are told about America's economy. 

A surprising trend has been showing up in Bank of America accounts over the past few months: The gap between America's wealthy and poor appears to be narrowing.

The wealth gap, called the “K-shaped economy," has been blamed for many of the economy's ills and a chief source of Americans' angst about their financial situation.

On the other hand, it has also been credited for keeping the US economy humming, as wealthier Americans keep spending and businesses keep hiring.

But what if that K-shaped narrative isn't true anymore?

Heather Black sees the bottom arm of the “K” getting even bigger, with more people struggling to cover the basics. Black is the vice president of the 211 System Strategy, a helpline supported by the United Way that connects people to food aid, mental health services, transportation and more.

In 2025, the 211 network made 6 million referrals for housing assistance, plus another 3 million for utilities. The trends are on a similar track this year, Black said.

Larger tax refunds this spring may have helped families catch up on bills for a month or two. But the one-time payment isn’t enough to bend the “K” itself. 

“Maybe we get caught up this one time on the overdue rent, but it’s not a solution,” Black said. “It’s a Band-Aid.”