IMPACT! Helping ALICE Beyond a Barrier

CCN-11-2022-pexels-Andrea-Piacquadio-768x662

ALICE – Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed. This describes the thousands of Jackson County residents who fill jobs we count on every day, yet they struggle financially. One huge expense many of them face is child care. United Way is proud to collaborate with Child Care Network to provide scholarships that are making a huge difference for local families:

“Joe and Mary Smith” are ALICE: hard-working parents, both employed to make ends meet. They applied for a child care scholarship for their youngest daughter while facing a series of challenges. Joe’s employer cut his hours, and Mary took a new job to keep up—but with a longer commute, just as gas prices began to rise. They were in a pinch, with a lack of options for quality and affordable child care, and facing growing expenses. Fortunately, the Smiths received the scholarship through Child Care Network’s Family Support Program. It allowed them to return to full-time work while their daughter reaped the benefits of a quality child care. Then Joe was injured at work and placed on disability. Being able to keep their daughter in child care makes it possible for Joe to stay engaged in medical care and physical therapy, and for Mary to keep working. The family is eternally grateful and appreciative for this assistance.

Not only is this partnership keeping a family financially stable, it’s helping a young child get the best possible start in life. We invite you to make a financial gift to United Way so together we can keep impacting lives right here in Jackson County.

Day 4: Talking About Race and Racism

April 18, 2025

Day 3: Understanding and Reflecting on Bias

April 18, 2025

Day 2: Racial Socialization

April 15, 2025

Kristie May’s article series exploring gun violence in Kalamazoo earns award nomination

April 8, 2025

Day 1: How do you think about your racial and social identity?

April 7, 2025

Understanding Racial Equity: A Free 21-Day Learning Journey

March 18, 2025

Three Years of Seeding Health Funding Yields Positive Results for Battle Creek Nonprofits

March 12, 2025

Cereal Sale Benefitting UW Returns to Battle Creek

February 25, 2025

UWSCMI among recipients of Consumers Energy’s $5 million gift

February 10, 2025

A Statement from United Way of South Central Michigan

January 29, 2025