We all likely know a struggling mother, a family or a senior citizen living “on the edge.” They are one paycheck, one major car repair or unexpected medical bill away from being homeless, going without meals or simply being without hope.

These people may be our friends and neighbors who are working hard – usually working two or more jobs – yet still struggling to make ends meet. United Way calls this population ALICE. ALICE stands for asset limited, income constrained, employed – earning above the federal poverty level yet struggling to afford basic expenses. Across the Virginia Peninsula, 39% of households are living as ALICE.

Your gift to United Way provides the resources ALICE needs to overcome the cycle of poverty. United Way connects people to the organizations that offer the specific help these individuals need.

The Newport News Shipbuilding United Way campaign is a powerful statement of our commitment to helping the community in which we live and work. Pledge today by visiting the NNS Giving platform, YourCause (nns.YourCause.com). Giving options include recurring payroll deductions, one-time payroll deductions and credit card donations. Paper pledge forms are available by contacting [email protected].

The NNS United Way campaign runs through June, but the need is great all year long. Consider making the commitment to help ALICE today, and into the future.