Everyone deserves the opportunity to earn a living that can sustain a family and build security for future generations. That’s why we’re partnering to help more adults thrive in a career, live in quality housing, and build generational wealth.
Meet ALICE
ALICE, an acronym for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed, is a new way of defining and understanding the struggles of households that earn above the Federal Poverty Level, but not enough to afford a bare-bones household budget.
For far too many families, the cost of living outpaces what they earn. These households struggle to manage even their most basic needs—housing, food, transportation, child care, health care, and necessary technology. When funds run short, cash-strapped households are forced to make impossible choices, such as deciding between quality child care or paying the rent, filling a prescription or fixing the car. These short-term decisions have long-term consequences not only for ALICE families, but for the health and stability of our entire community.
ALICE in Champaign County, Illinois
In Champaign County, thousands of households fall into the ALICE category. These families are the backbone of our community—working in essential jobs like child care, health care, retail, and transportation—yet they are often one emergency away from financial crisis. Supporting ALICE households means strengthening the workforce, stabilizing neighborhoods, and ensuring children grow up with the security they need to thrive.
By focusing on financial stability, affordable housing, and pathways to build wealth, United Way of Champaign County and our partners are investing in long-term solutions that benefit everyone. When ALICE families succeed, our whole community is stronger.