The latest ALICE Report from United Way sheds light on a reality that hits especially close to home in Clark, Champaign, and Madison Counties. Across Ohio, 39 percent of households struggle to make ends meet, earning more than the federal poverty level but still not enough to afford basic necessities like housing, child care, food, transportation, health care and technology. These ALICE households (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) are the backbone of our communities.
In Clark, Champaign, and Madison Counties, ALICE families are working, often in essential yet underpaid roles. People who contribute daily to the wellbeing of the community, yet for them, financial stability remains out of reach. Rising costs and stagnant wages leave them one emergency away from crisis.
That’s why United Way’s work is more important than ever. Through strategic partnerships, community investments and direct support services, United Way mobilizes local resources to address both urgent needs and long-term solutions, like our new Thrive in Five initiative focused on early brain development and kindergarten readiness. From helping families access food and safe housing to investing in early childhood education and workforce readiness, United Way is committed to reducing barriers and expanding opportunity.
The ALICE data is a clear call to action. It underscores the need for continued, united efforts to build a stronger, more equitable community where every person has the chance to thrive. United Way of Clark, Champaign, and Madison Counties will continue to lead those efforts, bringing together people, resources and ideas to create lasting change.
If you believe in building a community where every family and individual has a fair shot at stability and success, join us. Your support helps turn data into real solutions.