ALICE
Supporting Stability in Bristol
ALICE stands for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed — a term that describes thousands of hardworking individuals and families in our region. By understanding ALICE, we see the true cost of living in Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia—and why financial security is essential for a stronger community.
SO, WHO IS ALICE?
Asset Limited. Income Constrained. Employed.
ALICE families earn more than the federal poverty level but less than what it takes to afford life’s basics—housing, childcare, food, transportation, and health care. These are our neighbors working in schools, grocery stores, health care, restaurants, and retail. They serve our community every day but often live paycheck-to-paycheck, with little or no savings.
For ALICE, one unexpected expense—a car repair, a medical bill, a rent increase—can mean financial crisis. They face tough choices, like whether to pay for child care or the electric bill.
Why ALICE Matters
The future strength of Bristol depends on the financial stability of ALICE households. When nearly half of households in our area struggle to make ends meet, it impacts everyone. By supporting ALICE, we strengthen the entire community.
ALICE in Bristol
- Nearly half of households in Bristol struggle to cover basic expenses.
- A large percentage are ALICE families: working, but unable to get ahead.
- These households live above the poverty line but below the threshold of financial security.
United Way of Bristol is committed to bridging this gap by funding programs, partnering with local agencies, and investing in solutions that move families from crisis to stability.
ALICE households are the backbone of our community — and they’re just one unexpected expense away from crisis.
FAQs
Understanding ALICE in Door County
What does ALICE stand for?
ALICE stands for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed. These are individuals and families who earn above the federal poverty level but still don’t make enough to afford basic living expenses like housing, food, child care, transportation, and health care. While they may not qualify for government assistance, they are financially vulnerable and often one emergency away from falling into deeper hardship.
How is ALICE different from those living below the poverty line?
People below the poverty line typically qualify for public support programs, but ALICE households often fall into a gap — earning too much to qualify for assistance yet too little to cover everyday costs. They are often overlooked in traditional economic assessments, even though they face daily financial insecurity and lack a meaningful safety net.
Why does ALICE matter to our community?
ALICE workers are essential to the local economy — they’re the caregivers, service workers, retail staff, and healthcare aides who keep Door County running. When ALICE families struggle, it affects not just individual households but also the businesses and systems that rely on them. Supporting ALICE is critical to creating a thriving, resilient community for everyone.
What are some common challenges ALICE households face?
ALICE workers are essential to the local economy — they’re the caregivers, service workers, retail employees, and healthcare aides who keep Bristol running. When ALICE families struggle, it impacts not only individual households but also the businesses and systems that rely on them. Supporting ALICE is key to building a thriving, resilient community for everyone.
How can I support ALICE in Bristol?
You can support ALICE by giving to programs that provide both immediate relief and long-term solutions—like transportation, child care support, and financial coaching. Volunteering your time or speaking up for policies that address the root causes of financial instability also makes a difference. Every action—big or small—helps strengthen the safety net for hardworking families in Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia.
