by Julie Randolph, Information and Access Care Coordination Manager

Individuals categorized in the ALICE population earn above the Federal Poverty Limits, but not enough to afford basic expenses in the county where they live. You may go to unitedforalice.org, select Data Tools, and Income Status Tool to see your household ALICE status. A.L.I.C.E. is an acronym for Asset Limited Income Constrained Employed.

The fastest growing group of Michiganders, who are living within the ALICE income parameters, are households headed by individuals 65 and over and not employed. Between 2010 and 2023 the number of ALICE households of those 65 and over grew by 39%. Forty-one percent of all 65+ households were within the ALICE income levels in 2023.

This population has garnered the attention of economists and community assistance organizations because income is inadequate to cover basic costs and yet they are not eligible for many state and federal supplemental programs or benefits. These individuals play a vital role in our community and contribute to the economy as workers, consumers, and taxpayers.

The lack of financial resiliency can result in a crisis at any moment. Vulnerabilities come in many forms, both great and small, for example: unexpected home maintenance or car repair, medical expenses, increase in rent or property taxes, natural disasters, and rising cost of food and gas prices.

These individuals are barely making it day to day, or month to month, and often go without basic needs being met. Basic needs are described as: Housing (safe and affordable); Nutrition (adequate and healthy food); Transportation (reliable, adequate, and affordable); Health Care (access and affordability); Technology (access and affordability); Savings (resiliency in times of need and retirement; investment in the future).
“Across Midland County, ALICE households are facing impossible choices every day,” shared Holly Miller, President and CEO of United Way of Midland County. “United Way is focused on strengthening the systems and supports that ensure every person, at every stage of life, can access the essentials they need to live with stability and dignity.”

Financial hardship affects physical and psychological wellbeing. Perhaps you or someone you know are experiencing this hardship. Resources exist in Midland County to help bridge the gap. Please call 211 or reach out to our Information and Access specialists for more information.