Half Of Loudoun Women Report Major Challenges: Local Impact Report

LOUDOUN COUNTY, VA — Half of the women in Loudoun County say they face major challenges, according to this year's impact report from the Loudoun Coalition on Women and Girls (LCWAG). In previous years, only about a third of respondents reported major challenges.

The most common challenges were access to health care, child care support, and workforce connections. Other challenges included concerns about domestic violence, housing, and food insecurity.

"It is almost impossible to save and significantly difficult to afford housing and child care in the area," one survey respondent said

The LCWAG survey was conducted this winter, and officials published their findings this week. The coalition noted that half of the surveyed women were 40 years old or older, and about 40 percent of the survey takers were at or below the median income for their area.

"As we strategize for the year ahead, LCWAG is determined to elevate women and girls while ensuring that the foundational supports for their mental health, economic security, and professional development are not compromised,” LCWAG Chair Ferri Riar said in a news release. “Through research in action, we will strengthen LCWAG's impact in 2023 and beyond, emboldening women and girls to thrive in Loudoun County.”

According to the study, 60 percent of respondents expressed interest in professional development programs. Responses highlighted a need for flexibility as women in the county balance familial and professional responsibility.

"Women and girls are being burdened with work expectations and picking up the family needs more since COVID," one Loudoun woman said in the survey.

The full report is available online.