The third ALICE Report released recently shows that as of 2018 31%, or nearly a third-of Manitowoc County households, are struggling to afford necessities like housing food and transportation.
Courtney Hanson-Community Engagement Manager for United Way-Manitowoc County says ALICE is an acronym for Asset Limited-Income Constrained Employed, and explained that “These are the households and individuals that are above the Federal Poverty Level, but are still having a very hard time meeting their basic needs. They are often one emergency from falling into poverty, and for many of these households, that one emergency could be the COVID-19 pandemic.”
Hansen says many faced financial insecurity before the pandemic and has exacerbated difficulties such as wage insecurity-disruption of child services and barriers to working or attending school virtually. That included things like having a cell phone or computer with internet access, which are needed to, in Hanson’s words “you do need to thrive and connect in today’s society.”
An additional cost that can take up a large chunk of a household’s budget is the cost of childcare. “That is one statistic that the ALICE report is really pointing out this year,” Hanson told SeehaferNews.com. “In many cases, childcare for an infant per year is costing more than the tuition at a public institution.” Which can run into the tens of thousands of dollars.
The 31% figure is down from 34% in 2016 and three percent below the 34% statewide average which Hansen says is a testament to great programs and non-profit services throughout the County. Hanson said, “At United Way, we feel very excited that we have been able to assist with our COVID-19 Basic Needs Relief Fund, providing in total, 2 phases of grants and over $75,000 for non-profits in our community ensure that they can meet the basic needs of our community members, and then also focus on their recovery as well.”
To learn more about current initiatives to address the financial hardship experienced by ALICE families and how you can help visit United Way-Manitowoc County’s website or call 682-8888.
