‘LIFT’ helps workers caught between poverty level and cost of living

The purpose of LIFT - a program launched two years ago by United Way of Midland County and 211 Northeast Michigan - is to help those in the ALICE population in Midland County keep up with unexpected expenses and not fall into dire circumstances. To provide a needed lift, in essence.

ALICE stands for asset limited, income constrained, employed - in other words, residents who are working and whose income is above the level required to qualify for assistance but still below the cost of living.

LIFT harnesses the resources of many nonprofits and the funding of the Herbert H. and Grace A. Dow Foundation, the Charles J. Strosacker Foundation and ARPA grants to meet the needs of those who may have nowhere else to turn for help.

Housing needs (mortgage, rent, rental deposit) and home repair needs are coordinated by Home to Stay; food needs by 211; utilities cost assistance by Salvation Army (for Consumers Energy) and by Caregiving Network (for propane); child care needs by Great Start Collaborative; transportation needs by Salvation Army; and health care and dental care needs by 211 and Helping Hands Dental.