Over 40 percent of local households struggle for basic needs
ALPENA, Mich. — United Way of Michigan released the most recent ALICE report, focusing on those who are Asset Limited, Income Constrained, and Employed that struggle to pay for basic needs.
The report shows that 43 percent of households in Alpena are below the ALICE line. This includes families under the federal poverty line and families who do not qualify for assistance, but still struggle to pay for necessities. This data is from 2019, too, and United Way says these numbers are higher now because of the pandemic.
Joe Gentry, the Executive Director at United Way of Northeast Michigan, says the biggest problem these households face is food insecurity. People below the ALICE line are one disaster away from losing their home and having to abandon their way of life, according to Gentry.
“They’re making decisions like ‘Do I get my medication, or do I put food on the table,'” Gentry said. “Their income doesn’t give them the comfort to afford all of the basic necessities, and they’re living on the edge of a disaster.”
During these times, United Way is supporting food pantries and local organizations that give assistance to their residents in need. Now, Gentry says, people in need sometimes do not ask for the assistance available because of pride.
“People in need have to realize they’re a bigger part of the population than they can imagine,” Gentry said. “They’re not alone in some of the issues that they face, and there’s agencies that can help them.”
If you or someone you know struggles to afford the basic needs of life, contact United Way by dialing 2-1-1, which is available 24/7, and provides information about health and human service resources available for Alcona, Alpena and Montgomery County residents.
