Across the Tri-County, 38% of households struggle to make ends meet. These are ALICE®(Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) families, people working hard, raising children and contributing to our community, yet often forced to make impossible choices between rent, groceries, healthcare and childcare. For many, a single unexpected expense can push them into crisis.
Hard work alone is no longer enough to guarantee stability. That’s why Trident United Way created the Strong Families, Strong Community Initiative.
Guided by our mission — Uniting the Tri-County to uplift families out of poverty — and our Bold Community Goal to uplift 15,000 families out of poverty by 2035, this initiative provides families with the tools, resources and support they need to move from surviving to thriving.
Family Coaches: The Heart of the Work
Every family in the initiative partners with a dedicated Family Coach to serve as a compassionate guide who helps them:
- Define their own vision of success and set achievable goals
- Increase income through job training, career coaching and promotions
- Reduce debt and strengthen credit
- Access benefits and resources through Trident United Way’s partner network
Whether it’s creating a household budget, earning a GED, removing a barrier to employment, or preparing for a job with increased pay, Family Coaches meet families where they are and walk with them toward where they want to be.
Support That Meets Families Where They Live and Work
The Strong Families, Strong Communities Initiative is embedded across the Tri-County so support is never far away:
- At work through Trident United Way’s Thrive@Work employee support program.
- Close to home in libraries and places of worship.
- In schools where ALICE® children are learning.
- With a strong network of coordinated nonprofit partners.
- At Trident United Way Centers for Strong Families in Summerville, Moncks Corner, North Charleston and Downtown Charleston.
Trident United Way believes that when families are strong, communities are strong. The Strong Families, Strong Communities Initiative ensures hardworking families have the opportunities, coaching and resources they need to build lasting stability and brighter futures.