_ALICE Advocacy Alert_

A shocking 13% increase in households experiencing financial hardship since 2019 highlights a growing crisis across every zip code in our state.

These ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) families are the backbone of our communities. Despite this, they struggle every day to access and afford basic necessities like housing, childcare and food.

On Wednesday, more than 100 community advocates joined us at the State Capitol to stand with and for ALICE families.

We heard firsthand the moving stories of four ALICE families struggling to make ends meet. We also gained invaluable insights from state legislators committed to addressing this crisis.

Photos by Gio Roper

Watch the full press event

Here are the key takeaways:

13% spike in the number of ALICE families (2019-2022)

There are now 564,000 ALICE households - the most since we started this data-backed research initiative 10 years ago
Expanded pandemic benefits have now expired

50% of most common jobs in CT pay under $20/hr (2022)

A single parent with 1 child needs to earn $35/hr working full-time to afford the basics
2 parents with 2 children need to earn $57/hr working full-time

Our state budget is stronger than ever

$4 billion in the budget reserve fund - it's maxed out
6 years of consecutive budget surpluses

CT Child Tax Credit is a proven solution

The top policy priority for Connecticut United Ways
A fully refundable CT Child Tax Credit will reach 75% of families and 550,000 children in every community
For every $1 in child tax credit a family receives, they generate $1.38 in economic activity - this 38% return on investment is a significant boost to our economy

SIGN OUR CT CHILD TAX CREDIT PETITION

Help us unlock solutions for ALICE families. Sign our CT Child Tax Credit petition today! We've already heard from over 1,000 supporters, including many who aren't raising children. Then, share this email with your friends, neighbors, clients, colleagues, volunteers and Board of Directors.

Remember, the ALICE movement isn't only about ALICE. It's about building a stronger Connecticut for everyone. When ALICE families thrive, our entire community and economy benefit, too.