Financial light for Idaho’s poverty percentage

In recent years, United Way’s “ALICE” has reduced Idaho’s percentage of poverty by offering financial assistance to families and individuals having a hard time with basic housing finances.

According to Executive Director of Pocatello’s United Way, Margaret Ganyo, in 2013, over 100,000 households were eligible for assistance through ALICE.

She says the project is designed for those who earn above the federal poverty levels, but struggle with basic housing finances.

For instance, Ganyo says, a family or individual can be helped with their utility bills, such as a power bill. However, it all depends on their annual income.

“So, we really wanted to take a look at this and look at who those people are who could really be vulnerable. Who, let’s say, get into a car accident, or car repair, anything like over $400 really sends people over the edge.”

She says the College of Business at ISU is also helping to determine the numbers of individuals in Eastern Idaho who may be in need of the program. And encourages anyone to contact United Way for assistance, if needed, through the ALICE program.

Pocatello United Way: 208-232-1389