Nearly half of households across Heart of Indiana United Way’s five-county region are struggling to afford the essentials needed to live and work, according to newly released ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) data.
The latest findings reveal that 46% of households in Delaware, Fayette, Henry, Madison, and Randolph counties are unable to consistently afford basic needs such as housing, childcare, food, transportation, healthcare, and technology. That’s approximately 63,254 households across our region.
While many people assume financial hardship only affects those living below the federal poverty level, the ALICE report tells a different story. In our region, 30% of households earn above the federal poverty level but still don’t earn enough to cover the true cost of living. Another 16% live below the federal poverty level.
ALICE households are the workers who keep our communities running every day. They include childcare providers, healthcare aides, retail workers, food service employees, delivery drivers, and many others whose jobs are essential to our local economy. Despite working hard, many continue to face impossible financial choices each month.
The challenge has grown more difficult over time. According to the report, the cost of basic household necessities in Indiana increased more than 61% between 2007 and 2024—outpacing overall inflation during the same period.
The data also highlights significant disparities across our region. Madison County has the highest percentage of households below the ALICE Threshold at 48%, followed closely by Delaware County at 47%. Racial disparities remain significant as well, with 67% of Black households and 47% of Hispanic households in the region living below the ALICE Threshold or in poverty.
At Heart of Indiana United Way, this data helps guide our work and partnerships. Whether through programs that help families achieve financial stability, support children and youth, or strengthen community resilience, we are committed to helping ALICE households meet today’s needs while building a stronger future.
“ALICE is the lifeforce of our communities—the caregivers, delivery drivers, and essential workers we rely on every day,” said Jenni Marsh, President & CEO of Heart of Indiana United Way. “Yet too many continue to face barriers to financial stability despite working hard. Heart of Indiana United Way is committed to helping ALICE families cover today’s essentials while gaining strength for tomorrow.”
Understanding ALICE is essential to understanding our communities. These are our neighbors, coworkers, friends, and family members who are working hard but still struggling to make ends meet.
To explore county-level data and learn more about the State of ALICE in Indiana, visit UnitedForALICE.org/Indiana.