United for ALICE: a follow up and action steps you can take
Image from our local United Way’s ALICE presentation
Over 130 people attended, in person or virtually, our recent program on ALICE, a collaboration with the United Way of Rutherford and Cannon Counties, the MTSU Department of Social Work, and the MTSU Department of Human Sciences to discuss quality of life in Rutherford County.
According to most recent data, 45% of households in Rutherford County are struggling. While 9% are below Federal Poverty Level, another 36% are identified as ALICE - households earning above poverty level, but not enough to afford basic household necessities.
If you missed the presentation or want to learn more, you can:
view the presentation slides shared by Megan Flippin and Kristen Swann of the United Way.
Scroll down for other ways to follow up on this program.
Suggested further reading
Maid: Hard Work, Low Pay, and a Mother’s Will to Survive by Stephanie Land (now a Netflix series)
The Third Law by Tamra Ryan
Charity Case by Dan Pallotta
Evicted: Poverty and Profit in the American City by Matthew Desmond
Further actions you can take to support our community
Explore more ALICE data and the United Way's United for ALICE campaign here
Support the United Way's Welcome Home Baskets and Hotel Food Baskets
Join the League (student memberships are free!) or keep up with League news by joining our email list here.
Vote! Find out where and how here - we especially recommend the GoVoteTN app.
Refer those in need to the 211 Helpline that serves 42 middle Tennessee counties with resources and referrals including
Health care services
Employment service
Money management and free tax prep
Rent and utility assistance
Senior services
Basic needs (food, clothing, shelter)
Counseling and mental health
Domestic violence assistance
Legal help
Affordable housing
Childcare and after-school programming
and more