This report, the first in a series, presents the findings of a 1984 survey to identify the characteristics and problems of the Twin Cities (Minnesota) area's poorest families. Nine hundred and sixty-six low-income households, representing the poorest 20 percent of the population, were interviewed by telephone or in person. At the same time that this survey was taken, a parallel survey was taken of the general population, thus allowing comparisons between the two groups. Highlights of the findings include the following: (1) at least five different types of low-income households were identified; (2) low-income people resemble the general population in that they span all ages, are mostly white, but they are slightly more likely to be female than the general population; (3) low-income people differ from the general population in that they are more likely to be under age 25 or over age 65, less likely to have graduated from high school, and much more likely to be single and living alone or single and living with children; and (4) the biggest problems facing low-income people stem from inability to pay for adequate housing, utilities, basic necessities, and medical care. Statistical data are included on three graphs and one table. (Author/FMW)