Bucks Knocks Out Hunger (BKO Hunger) is working to help the 25 percent of Bucks County families who are unable to afford most basic necessities, writes staff at Bucks County Courier Times.
These families are described as Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed, otherwise known as ALICE. While they live above the poverty line, they still face challenges with childcare, food, housing, technology, taxes, and healthcare.
When budgets tighten, ALICE families often choose not to purchase healthier food options because of the cost.
Led by the United Way of Bucks County, the Bucks Knocks Out Hunger campaign supports these struggling households.
For 13 years, BKO Hunger has supported local food pantries, Fresh Connect, and produce box programs for seniors to assist low-income families.
Many ALICE families work in professions that keep the community afloat. Of these families, 36 percent are healthcare workers, 22 percent work in education and childcare, and 30 percent work in hospitality and retail. An additional 12 percent work in similar vital roles.
“These are working families,” said PJ O’Brien, Impact Director for Financial Stability at United Way of Bucks County. “They don’t qualify for most traditional food assistance. BKO Hunger helps us bridge that gap with dignity and compassion.”
Learn more about the challenges ALICE families face and how Bucks Knocks Out Hunger is making a difference in the Bucks County Courier Times.
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