Why We Need Io-20 Residence Inns Nickel and Dimed — Best-selling author Barbara Ehrenreich details one of America’s primary problems: housing for low-income wage earners. Minimum-wage singles — In her travels, Ehrenreich met many low-income workers needing affordable housing, including single mothers with no support from the biological fathers of their children. Elderly singles — Mature workers who have lost their jobs, retired or are nearing retirement are among those in need of affordable, clean, safe living accommodations.