United Way of Central Maryland Need Help? What We Do Get Involved About Us Stories Give Now LEND A HAND Covid survey reveals struggles of hardworking households Share this story August 4, 2021 The pandemic’s been tough on us all—especially low-wage earners. In mid-March, we surveyed more than 2,000 people across the state about how they’ve been impacted by the pandemic. The findings did not surprise us. With limited income and little to no savings, working families whose earnings can’t keep pace with the high cost of essentials—like housing, food, and healthcare—are being hit the hardest. “Just because people’s incomes are over the poverty level, do not assume that we have tons of money to spare. We are swimming in debt trying to just stay alive and keep our family intact.” —survey respondent Among the top concerns of those who are ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) and those below the federal poverty level*: Losing their home: 1 in 2 Losing their job or reduced work hours: nearly 30% Feeding their families: 1 in 3 Paying bills: 43% Childcare: Twice as likely to be worried about finding childcare *Compared with those above the ALICE Threshold. “We are struggling on a daily basis but are just over the threshold for qualifying for support. Without the new stimulus payment coming this week we would not have been able to cover our household bills and expenses.” —survey respondent United Way helps the most vulnerable in our communities by providing resources and programs to assist them throughout the pandemic and the recovery that follows. We’re helping. You can, too. Read the COVID Survey report here. Share this story LEND THEM A HAND Help working families with basic needs Give Now More Stories PLAYGROUND PARTNERS BUILD SAFE PLAY AND LEARN SPACE FOR KIDS Support your community with Emerging Leaders United A Brighter Outlook for the Future: The Way Home Project 2021 BECOME A PART OF SOMETHING BIGGER Get the latest info on how you can join us to improve the lives of our neighbors —and the neighborhoods they call home. Sign Up United Way of Central Maryland About Us Equity Statement Annual Report Strategic Plan Privacy Policy Log In Information 211 Helpline Careers Reports & Data News Contact Us Get Involved Volunteer Events Groups Resources Give Now © 2021 United Way of Central Maryland Terms & Conditions Privacy Policy