RESOURCES: https://unitedwaynca.org/what-we-do/our-programs/do-more-24/

While headlines often focus on stock market gains or employment stats, a growing financial crisis is quietly impacting the lives of thousands of working families in the DMV. On The Daily Drum on WHUR 96.3, we’re taking a deeper look into the newly released State of ALICE Report:

2025 Update on Financial Hardship from the United Way of the National Capital Area.

Who Is ALICE?

ALICE stands for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed — households earning more than the Federal Poverty Level but not enough to afford life’s basic essentials like:

• Housing
• Food
• Childcare
• Transportation
• Healthcare

These households make up a shocking 33% of the DMV region — that’s more than 682,000 families struggling to survive despite working full- or part-time jobs.

Tonight’s Guests on The Daily Drum:

• Rosie Allen-Herring, President & CEO, United Way NCA
• Scott Mengebier, Senior Director of Research & Evaluation, United Way NCA

They’ll help break down what’s driving these troubling statistics and what’s being done to offer real solutions.

What’s Behind the Numbers?

The report points to several contributing factors:

• Wages not keeping pace with the cost of living
• Rollbacks on pandemic-era safety net programs
• Underemployment and lack of benefits
• An increase in laid-off federal workers and contractors nearing the end of their severance or unemployment benefits

Even nonprofits that have traditionally filled the gap are struggling. DMV food banks report losing more than 1.5 million meals due to federal funding cuts.

A 24-Day Call to Action: Do More 24

The Do More 24 Campaign by United Way NCA is a 24-day movement designed to raise awareness, funding, and action for households below the ALICE Threshold.

It’s a chance for individuals, local businesses, and community leaders to make a tangible difference through:

• Donations
• Volunteerism
• Advocacy
• Resource sharing

Why This Affects Everyone

When essential workers can’t afford to live in the communities they serve, it impacts us all — from healthcare access to education quality and workforce stability.

How You Can Help

• Donate to Do More 24
• Share the ALICE findings on social media
• Volunteer with local nonprofits
• Contact local leaders about funding and support for essential services

Listen live on WHUR 96.3 FM or stream at whur.com