Who We Help
The ALICE Population
The ALICE population is people who are Asset Limited, Income Constrained, and Employed. Despite working hard, this population is stuck in a cycle of financial hardship, and across Western New York, more than 40% of households live below the ALICE survival threshold. These households are who our programs are focused on.
Asset Limited
Households experiencing ALICE are living paycheck to paycheck. They don’t have the luxury of saving money or investing because the money they do earn goes entirely to their cost-of-living expenses.
Income Constrained
Though individuals who fall under this category live above the federal poverty level, they still do not earn an income to afford necessities like housing, food, transportation, technology, childcare, and healthcare.
Employed
These individuals are actively employed, sometimes holding more than one job to ensure they are able to put food on the table for their household.
ALICE in Western New York
Across Erie County, there are a staggering number of households that are part of the ALICE demographic despite doing all they can to live comfortably.
Supporting Our Workforce
To address the issues hardworking individuals in our community face every day, United Way of Buffalo & Erie County has implemented resource coordination, financial education, and a loan and savings program.
ALICE by the numbers
Research conducted by United Way of Buffalo & Erie County and United Way of New York State shows current trends in ALICE households both at the state and county level.
Get Involved with ALICE
The ALICE Experience
The ALICE Experience is a financial challenge simulator that educates on the issues facing this population.
ALICE Advisory Council
If you are among the 40% of our community who work but still struggle to pay bills, consider joining the ALICE Community Advisory Council to share your ideas on how United Way of Buffalo & Erie County and other agencies can fill gaps and help others like you.