n this episode of the cityCURRENT Show, Andrew Bartolotta sits down with Tracey Dill, Chief Community Impact Officer for United Way of Greater Nashville, to discuss the growing impact of ALICE — Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed — and the millions of hardworking Americans who are struggling to make ends meet despite being employed.
ALICE represents essential workers who keep our communities running, including childcare providers, healthcare workers, retail associates, delivery drivers, and countless others who earn above the federal poverty level but still cannot afford the true cost of living. As Tracey explains, many ALICE households are only one unexpected expense, medical emergency, car repair, or weather-related disaster away from financial crisis.
During the conversation, Tracey shares insights from United Way’s ALICE research, including the startling reality that 41% of Tennesseans live either in poverty or below the ALICE threshold, highlighting the growing challenges created by rising childcare costs, housing expenses, healthcare, and inflation.
Tracey also shares how United Way of Greater Nashville is using ALICE data to drive meaningful solutions, advocate for change, and ensure hardworking families have access to the resources they need to thrive.
To learn more about ALICE and United Way’s work across Middle Tennessee, visit the United Way of Greater Nashville and United For ALICE website here.
