ALICE is an acronym for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed. They represent an astounding 39% of Beaver County households that live at or below the ALICE threshold. Although they are working, perhaps several jobs, ALICE is not able to afford the basics like food, clothing, housing and childcare.
The individual Beaver County neighborhood ALICE percentages range from 17% to 73%, with too many hovering right around the 50% mark.
Many in this group earn too much to qualify for assistance programs, so their need is often overlooked. ALICE is your neighbor, your co-worker, your childcare provider, your relative…it may even be you.
We must see them, and help them.
For millions of working families, every day is a test. But on this test, the choices are all impossible, and one wrong answer can have devastating results: pay the rent or pick up that prescription, buy auto insurance or keep the lights on, fill the fridge or the car’s gas tank.
The United for ALICE movement began in New Jersey in 2012, and has since grown to include partners in more than half of U.S. states, including Pennsylvania. Here in Beaver County we are focusing intensely on this population.
How You Can Help
We feel incredibly fortunate to have secured four matching grant offers to support our efforts in aiding ALICE. Notably, Shell Polymers, Monaca, which initially provided $75,000 in two matching grants, has generously increased its support by an giving an additional $16,500 matching grant for The ALICE Fund. This grant was given to encourage end-of-year giving to this year's campaign or to The ALICE Fund.
How It Works
All donations to the United Way of Beaver County that come in on #GivingTuesday and/or through the end of 2024 will be eligible for matching until we reach the full $16,500 matching grant. Your generosity makes a significant impact, ensuring that each donation is maximized to help those in need.
These mini-grants have the ability to help so many Beaver County families in 2024 and beyond – families that we may never be able to help otherwise. Your donation will contribute to the well-being and stability of families in Beaver County, especially to the 39% who are truly struggling, creating a positive ripple effect for years to come.
