A reception for “The Power of ALICE®” photography exhibit takes place from 10-11 a.m. Dec. 7 at the Coyle Free Library.
The public can view the exhibit and hear more about United Way of Franklin County’s ALICE Project. Artist Phillip Whitley of Mrphab Photos will be on hand for a meet-and-greet.
Light refreshments will be provided.
UWFC worked with local photographer Phillip Whitley to demonstrate through beautiful imagery the lives of three ALICE families. The exhibit shines a light on hard-working people that are the backbone of the community, yet struggle to meet their basic needs.
“The photography exhibit gives us a glimpse into the everyday lives of ALICE families, people that provide vital services to our community and play a crucial role in our economy. Everyone in Franklin County leans on ALICE for support daily, and we don’t always realize it. This is the power of ALICE in our community,” said Amy Hicks, executive director of United Way of Franklin County.
ALICE, which stands for Asset-Limited, Income-Constrained, Employed, is an initiative of the Pennsylvania network of United Ways. The project raises awareness of the challenges faced by working families. The goal is to mobilize organizations and individuals who want to support strategies and policies that move ALICE along their journey to financial stability.
30% in Franklin County Are Alice Households
United Way’s advocacy is based on data revealed in the 2019 Pennsylvania ALICE Report. That report determined 30% of Franklin County households cannot afford their basic essentials every month.
“These ALICE individuals we rely on then go home from work and struggle to support their own families,” Hicks said. ”There has to be more that we can do as a community for ALICE.”
The photography exhibit hopes to raise awareness and increase understanding of the realities ALICE faces and bring the community together to work toward solutions
The exhibit is on view at Coyle Free Library now through the end of the year. It will move Alexander Hamilton Memorial Free Library in Waynesboro early January. The exhibit remains there through the end of February.
UWFC is continuing community conversations to further explore ALICE in Franklin County. Hicks and her staff are starting discussions on how to develop solutions to help ALICE gain financial stability.
UW aims to collaborate with local businesses, government, nonprofit, and community members to implement solutions for ALICE. To get involved, contact United Way at 717-262-0015.
Learn more about ALICE in Franklin County at www.uwfcpa.org/alice.
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