River Region United Way Puts Spotlight on Working Families with New ALICE Initiative

In 2025, River Region United Way will shine a light on a growing—but often invisible—group of hardworking families in Alabama who are struggling to stay afloat. These are the ALICE households: Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed.

They’re the people we see every day—childcare workers, home health aides, store clerks, mechanics, and office assistants. They’re doing all the right things: working, contributing, and raising families. Yet many still can’t afford basic necessities like housing, food, childcare, and health care.

Next month, United Ways of Alabama will release its first statewide ALICE Report, which will show just how widespread this issue is. The data is sobering. In addition to the more than 324,000 Alabama households living in poverty, another 604,000 households are considered ALICE. These families earn more than the federal poverty level, but not enough to cover the cost of living.

River Region United Way is launching a focused effort to raise awareness and take action to help these families thrive.

“We all know someone who is ALICE,” said River Region United Way President and CEO Jannah Bailey. “They’re working hard, but they’re one emergency away from financial crisis. That’s not just their problem—it’s a community issue.”

Hard Work, Low Pay: Why ALICE Households Are Struggling

The cost of living continues to outpace wages across the state. According to the report, the average cost of basics for a family of four is more than $76,000 a year. Meanwhile, most common jobs in Alabama pay less than $20 an hour, which adds up to about $40,000 annually—barely enough for a single person, let alone a family.

In 60 of Alabama’s 67 counties, at least 40% of households fall below the ALICE threshold. These numbers make it clear: ALICE isn’t a fringe issue. It’s a widespread challenge affecting the backbone of our workforce.

Join the Movement: “United is the Way”

These realities will take center stage in River Region United Way’s 2025 annual campaign, which kicks off in August with the theme “United is the Way.” The campaign encourages individuals, businesses, and organizations to give what they can to help their neighbors—especially those who are ALICE.

A donation to the United Way supports programs that provide food, housing, education, and access to health care for struggling families. It’s a powerful way for community members to help these households regain stability and hope.

“Giving to United Way is one of the most direct ways to make a difference right here in the River Region,” said Bailey. “When we unite behind this cause, we can help ALICE families stop just surviving—and start thriving.”

To learn more about the ALICE initiative and how to support the upcoming campaign, visit our Campaign page or call 334-264-7318. Together, we can build a stronger, more resilient community—because United is the way forward.