40% of families in our region are living in poverty or paycheck to paycheck (what we call “ALICE” — Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed). That second group, works but makes too much money to qualify for any form of public support yet too little to sustain themselves. They tread water, and take on water, daily.

Everything our United Way does is designed to lift up those two groups by advancing education, financial stability, and health initiatives.

We help with immediate needs – via our 2-1-1 helpline, food delivery, and essential goods – because you can’t think about a future in the midst of a panic about now.

Then we help them to change their fundamental situation, beyond band-aids, to create greater access to the banking system, a stronger credit record and ways to lighten debt and create a savings habit through financial support resources. This helps move themselves and their families to firmer ground.

Responding to urgent needs with urgent help is critical. But without more fundamental change, we’re just stuck on a path to nowhere.