Nearly 40% of households in Rutherford County fall into the ALICE threshold—Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed. In this episode of Rutherford Issues, host Bryan Barrett sits down with Haley Vaughn, Director of ALICE Programs, and Ashley Ross, Vice President of Programs & Development with the United Way of South Central Tennessee. Together, they explore how hard-working families earning above the federal poverty level still struggle to afford basic necessities like housing, healthcare, and childcare.

The conversation highlights key community solutions, including the Launch Point program—an initiative providing up to 18 months of success coaching and financial guidance to help families overcome the "benefits cliff" and achieve long-term independence. They also discuss two-generational approaches to community uplift, such as Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, alongside tax preparation support through the VITA program. Tune in to discover actionable resources and learn how neighbors across the seven-county region can access support or get involved.

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding ALICE: Why 38% of Rutherford County families work full-time yet struggle to make ends meet.

• Overcoming the Benefits Cliff: How Launch Point provides coaching to help families increase earnings without losing vital support.

• Community Resources: How programs like VITA tax assistance, 211, and the Imagination Library build multi-generational financial stability.