The Challenges We Face

INCREASING ECONOMIC STABILITY

Those in poverty who want to move up from minimum-wage jobs often face significant challenges. We see ALICE every day – hard workers who keep the Bexar County economy running but can’t make ends meet. The Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed (ALICE) population represents the growing number of individuals and families who are working but unable to afford the basic necessities. At United Way, we’re working on system-level changes while helping organizations and initiatives offering education and workforce development, like our Dual Generation initiative, as they increase support of childhood and adult basic education, non-degree and industry-specific certificates, and other career and life pathways.

ADDRESSING WAGE DISPARITIES

In San Antonio, there is a significant wage disparity ratio between full-time women of color earners and full-time White male earners, which ultimately undercuts the core of what makes American society prosper: opportunity and equality. At United Way, we are raising awareness about the value of investing in women of color and the availability of training regarding the importance of paying equal wages for equal work for women of color.

INTERRUPT THE CYCLE OF ABUSE THROUGH PREVENTION AND INTERVENTION

When lives are interrupted by traumatic events, the impact is broad and diverse, deep and life-altering. At United Way, we are working to expand prevention and intervention services for those at risk of family violence or who are already victims or perpetrators themselves. Customized family services that help people stay safe and healthy include emergency shelter and crisis intervention for victims, in-home support, mental health and substance abuse services, access to respite care, financial counseling and support services for special needs families.

AFFORDABLE AND ACCESSIBLE MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORTS

Mental health is crucial for overall well-being, as it impacts how we think, feel and act, influencing our relationships, productivity and ability to cope with life’s challenges. We’re working to increase access to mental health supports, counseling services, peer supports for vulnerable populations and workforce support for working adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.