ALICE is an acronym standing for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed.
ALICE represents those who are able and working but are unable to afford the basic necessities of housing, food, childcare, health care and transportation. These can be individuals who work to educate our community’s children, keep us healthy and make our quality of life possible, but don’t earn enough to make ends meet. At least 1 in 5 families is ALICE and may have to make tough choices, like deciding between quality childcare or paying the rent. This can have long-term consequences not only for their families but everyone in our community. The COVID-19 pandemic and its hardships have caused more families to become ALICE and have made life even harder for those who were already considered ALICE.
We’re proud to partner with ALICE Program through the United Way of Northern New York, recently we’ve been able to celebrate a few success stories!
Veteran In Need
The family of a disabled veteran had totaled their vehicle, without a credit score or funds for a down payment they didn’t qualify for a traditional car loan. The loss of their vehicle created other strains, resulting in loss of employment, and affecting their ability to continue their higher education. With the help of the ALICE program, we were able to get the family qualified for a car loan, giving them the jump start they needed to get back on their feet with a new job and back in school.
Repairs Were Too Much
A woman, despite being disabled is employed and recently needed substantial repairs to her older model vehicle. These repairs exceeded the price of purchasing a more reliable vehicle. In partnership with the ALICE program, we secured a down payment that would qualify her for a loan and keep her monthly payments affordable.
Saving A Source Of Income
Northern Credit Union and ALICE were able to make the purchase of a vehicle possible for a family in which transportation was required for one parent to remain employed. Through this collaboration we were able to provide a down payment on a vehicle, making its purchase possible and saving this family’s only source of income.
To learn more about the ALICE program, to donate, or to apply if your family is experiencing these hardships, please visit the United Way of Northern New York’s website.