United Way NSV: Who Is ALICE?

The conversation today with Kaycee Childress, CEO, and Jennifer Hall, Sr. Director of Community Investment of United Way Northern Shenandoah Valley featured a discussion about the ALICE (Asset Limited. Income Constrained. Employed) report, with Jennifer providing details about its origins and scope. The ALICE report, which started in Virginia in 2017, has become a statewide initiative and expanded to multiple states across the country. The three discussed the challenges faced by 'ALICE' families, who are typically low-income, working-class individuals often employed in service sector jobs. They emphasized that these families are frequently struggling to make ends meet due to wages not keeping up with the cost of living. Kaycee highlighted the role of these families in various industries, noting that they are often relying on multiple jobs without benefits to support their families. The discussion also touched on the findings of the ALICE report, which provides detailed data on the prevalence of ALICE families in different localities and demographic groups. The report reveals that single mothers are particularly vulnerable to being below the ALICE threshold.  Janet and Jennifer also discussed the housing situation in the Shenandoah Valley, noting that many individuals seek help from the Valley Assistance Network (VAN) for housing-related issues. They aim to connect families with existing community resources to determine their eligibility since high rental costs can make some families ineligible for government programs. The ALICE Emergency Fund was also mentioned as a resource to assist families with housing costs.  Jennifer shared the case of a single mom named Renee who had been living in a motel with her kids for over a year after their landlord sold their house. Despite working two jobs, Renee struggled with transportation and the high cost of living in the motel. She was able to get a Section-8 housing voucher, but finding a place that would accept it proved challenging. The team managed to secure a new place for Renee, but she needed $4,000 for the security deposit and first month's rent. Eight agencies helped to cover the cost, with Renee contributing some herself. Janet highlighted the hardships faced by those living in such conditions, including limited access to cooking facilities and laundry. The team also discussed the difficulties of navigating the various agencies and funding sources involved. Once Renee moved into her new place, she faced additional challenges, including the need for furniture and kitchenware.  Janet and Jennifer discussed the financial struggles faced by many members of their community. They emphasized the importance of empathy and understanding towards those who may be struggling financially. The group also discussed ways to help, including donations and volunteering. Jennifer highlighted the impact that small donations could have, such as preventing a family from falling into poverty. Janet encouraged listeners to donate to the ALICE Emergency Fund during ALICE Awareness Week. Jennifer confirmed that all funds donated to this specific fund go directly to supporting families in need.  Learn more about ALICE, ALICE Awareness Week, and how you can help your community through donations to United Way of Northern Shenandoah Valley here: https://www.unitedwaynsv.org/