What and Who is ALICE?
ALICE, an acronym for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed, comprises households that earn more than the Federal Poverty Level but less than the basic cost of living for the state (the ALICE Threshold).
We all know people who are ALICE . ALICE workers educate our children, keep us healthy, and make our quality of life possible, yet do not earn enough to support their own families. ALICE households are forced to make tough choices, such as deciding between quality child care or paying the rent, which have long-term consequences not only for ALICE, but for all.
In the latest 2020 report, 54% of households in Alachua County are struggling to pay for basic needs such as housing, child care, food, transportation, health care and technology. Of the 54%, that includes 19% of households that are living in poverty and 35% of households that are ALICE.
Across our six-county service area, on average, 33% of households are ALICE. These ALICE households are working hard at one or more full-time jobs, but are still falling behind. Many of these families are one emergency away from losing it all.
United Way of North Central Florida strives to support these ALICE families and give them a fighting chance to lead meaningful and successful lives. Through various partnerships, the programs and services listed below provide assistance and support to ALICE families and individuals living and working in North Central Florida.
We help give ALICE a fighting chance!
Our programs and intiatives to help our ALICE population are:
- 2-1-1 helpline - 24/7 resource line that works to solve problems by connecting those in need with community resources
- FamilyWize - discount prescription medication card
- Last Resort Fund - one-time emergency assistance for working residents
- Disaster Assistance - one-time assistance when a natural disaster occurs
- ReadingPals - early-literacy initiative helping children improve third grade reading levels with a mentor for one hour per week
- Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) - provides free tax preparation to low- to moderate-income community members
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) - assistance available for families with children who are on the verge of eviction
- Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP) - assistance with rent, utilities and food through UWNCFL Community Impact Partners
- United Way Community Impact Partner programs - there are currently 32 programs funded through the Community Investment Fund focused on health, education, financial stability and immediate needs. Programs funded include assistance with food, rent and utilities, after-school programs, mental health services, dental services and credit retrieval programs for youth.
Read the latest report by county:
