Understanding ALICE in St. Johns and Putnam Counties — And How United Way is Taking Action
At United Way of St. Johns and Putnam Counties, we believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive. Yet for many hardworking individuals and families in our region, that goal remains just out of reach. These are the households we refer to as ALICE—Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed.
What is ALICE?
ALICE represents individuals and families who are working, often at more than one job, but still struggle to afford the basic necessities of housing, child care, food, transportation, and healthcare. They earn above the Federal Poverty Level, but not enough to meet the cost of living in their community.
ALICE households are vital to the fabric of our society—think of child care workers, home health aides, retail associates, and office assistants. They are essential, yet financially vulnerable.
A Snapshot of ALICE in Our Counties:
St. Johns County
Total households: 126,240
Living in poverty: 9,460
ALICE households: 31,624
Combined below ALICE threshold: 32% of households
While St. Johns is often viewed as an affluent area, nearly 1 in 3 households still struggles to afford basic needs.
Putnam County
Total households: 30,650
Living in poverty: 7,218
ALICE households: 10,095
Combined below ALICE threshold: 57% of households
In Putnam County, more than half of households are unable to afford the basic necessities, making this one of the most economically fragile communities in the state.
How United Way is Helping
United Way of St. Johns and Putnam Counties is committed to supporting the ALICE population through both immediate relief and long-term solutions:
Emergency Financial Assistance: Helping ALICE families stay in their homes, keep the lights on, and put food on the table.
Housing Affordability: Increase access to safe, and affordable housing through rental assistance, partnerships with local housing agencies, and community advocacy.
Affordable Childcare & Early Learning: Funding programs that make quality care and education accessible so parents can work and children can thrive.
Access to Healthcare: Partnering with local clinics and health programs to provide care and mental health resources.
Disaster Recovery: Offering financial assistance and recovery programs for families hit hardest by hurricanes and other emergencies.
When we lift up ALICE households, we strengthen our entire community. Whether you're donating, volunteering, or advocating for change, your support fuels our mission to ensure every person in St. Johns and Putnam Counties has the opportunity to build a better life.
Together, we can make thriving—not just surviving—a reality for all.