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Too many hard-working families in our community struggle to meet their basic needs and access economic opportunities. These ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) households work, pay taxes, and contribute to our economy, yet financial hardship holds them back.
As part of the Michigan Association of United Ways, we advocate for policies that build stronger communities, expand opportunities, and improve financial stability. We work with policymakers, partners, and advocates like you to address the root causes of need, improve service efficiency, and mobilize action so everyone can thrive.
As a nonpartisan organization, we do not endorse political candidates or parties—but we champion policies that help families, strengthen communities, and create opportunities for all.
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Childcare's low wages are driving workers to other jobs while, at the same time, the cost of childcare squeezes individual family budgets. This market is broken for ALICE families and for childcare professionals. Increased public investment into the childcare system is essential to stabilizing this critical pillar of the job market.
In Michigan, 27% of homeowners below the ALICE Threshold pay 50% of their income or more towards housing costs. 28% of ALICE renters pay rent that is equal to or more than the median cost of home ownership. We support continued action to make stable and affordable housing achievable for more ALICE households.
The oldest (age 65+) and youngest (under 25) households are disproportionately ALICE. Many work and are income-eligible for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), but they cannot receive it because they do not claim children on their taxes. Childless workers of any age should be eligible for the EITC. Families with children also need a boost to help with the rising cost of raising kids, with 47% of Michigan children living in households below the ALICE threshold. Michigan should continue to strengthen VITA to help ALICE taxpayers to access the credits they qualify for.
2-1-1 is the resource for social services in Michigan, helping agencies collaborate to reduce red tape for residents seeking help. A $2.6 million increase in public investment will enable 2-1-1 to partner with every community to bring efficient and effective public and private human services to all in Michigan.
It's time to pass bi-partisan legislation that would protect ALICE households from predatory lending by capping payday loans at 36% APR.
Our communities rely on nonprofits to provide nimble support during times of crisis, but recent changes to the tax code triggered a 13% decline in individual charitable giving. Reviving modest tax incentives for household charitable giving will help strengthen the nonprofit sector.
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