Learn about ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) issues ahead of the 2024 election
United Way’s programs and services, as well as our advocacy work, supports equity, access, and opportunity for all—with a focus on ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) households.
People at or below the ALICE budget threshold struggle every day to pay for the basics—like housing, food, healthcare, transportation, and childcare. In Maryland, 39% of households—nearly one million—don’t bring in enough income to keep pace with the cost of living.
A significant portion of Maryland’s workforce, including cashiers, cooks, restaurant staff, drivers, warehouse workers, health aides, childcare providers, office staff, and more, live as ALICE. A majority of these peopel are working in one or more jobs, and still live just one emergency away from financial crisis.
Policy change is a powerful way to break down longstanding barriers and strengthen lives, communities, and our economy. As we approach the 2024 election, it is crucial for voters to be aware of the challenges for ALICE households—which affect us all—at the ballot box.
The Maryland State Association of United Ways’ #VoteForALICE social media campaign encourages voters to consider ALICE issues at the ballot box and prioritize policies that promote economic stability and opportunity for all.
Hundreds of thousands of workers in Maryland currently live below the ALICE threshold, including 36% of retail salespersons, 49% of cashiers, and 12% of the state’s registered nurses. These hardworking individuals contribute essential services to our communities, but their income can’t keep pace with the high cost of living in the state.
“As we approach the 2024 election, it is crucial for eligible voters and policymakers to be aware of ALICE issues and consider the needs of ALICE households when voting,” said Franklyn Baker, President and CEO of United Way of Central Maryland. “Our Maryland State Association of United Ways stands united in our vision for healthy, thriving communities and work around the clock to tackle challenges in housing, childcare, transportation, digital access, and more that impact ALICE households—and policy change is often the first step in addressing inequities that prevent people from getting by—or even getting ahead.”
Want an easy way to stay informed on the issues and directly contact your elected officials? Sign up for Voter Voice, United Way’s advocacy platform that educates and mobilizes supporters, and does the work of reaching out to policy makers for you!
“The Maryland State Board of Elections is committed to educating eligible voters about how to participate in the General Election and appreciates the Maryland State Association of United Ways and others’efforts to communicate with Marylanders around the upcoming election,” said Jared DeMarinis, StateAdministrator, Maryland State Board of Elections. “Marylanders should visit the VOTE MD website for information on registering to vote and how to vote in this important election.”
Make your voice heard and take action today! UNITED, we can help improve the financial security and well-being of Maryland households that struggle to make ends meet.
To learn more about the challenges ALICE households face, to read the latest interactive ALICE Report, and to find helpful election resources so that you can vote to help ALICE households, visit uwcm.org/ALICE.
About United Ways in Maryland
United Ways in Maryland support and drive work in their respective regions to advance healthy communities, financial security, youth opportunity, and community resiliency.