The United Way says many Syracuse-area families are on the cusp of poverty as they struggle to pay for basic needs. In Onondaga County, data shows that actual costs of living are unsustainable for families and individuals considered to be just above the federal poverty line. The United Way is using the ALICE program to empower them. It stands for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed. Chief Impact Officer Alissa Tubbs says 39 percent of ALICE households in the county are struggling financially.
“To think about how many children and families in our community are struggling," Tubbs said. "Here at United Way, it is making us double down in our efforts in focusing on the the supports we can provide to both children, but also thinking about the entire family."
In the City of Syracuse approximately 59 percent are dealing with financial troubles. The United Way data show it’s even worse for 68 percent of single-parent households. Tubbs says both individuals and larger families are having difficulty buying the essentials.
“Whether they need help providing diapers for their children or finding their local food pantry or getting connected to the Syracuse Financial Empowerment Center for Free Financial coaching. So there's a lot of different supports."
Tubbs suggests any household or individuals dealing with those problems or even mental health issues should call our local human services number 211. United Way data shows 61-percent of younger individuals under age 25 and nearly 50-percent of seniors 65 and older are considered ALICE households.
Editors note: The United Way of Central New York is a financial supporter of WAER.
