Jacksonville, FL – United Way of Northeast Florida teamed up with JEA employees on Thursday morning to help spread awareness about customers who are going through financial struggles.
Over 60 JEA employees had a chance to learn about customers who are “ALICE” (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed). The are individuals and families who earn above the federal poverty level but still struggle to cover daily expenses.
United Way guided participants through an ALICE poverty simulation exercise, which lays out scenarios of financially struggling families, and how they navigate monthly bills along with the overall rising cost of living.
Employees had to use problem-solving skills and empathy to navigate real-life scenarios.
“The goal is for us to have a better connection with our community,” said Dr. Charles Moreland, Chief Customer Experience Officer at JEA. “Just know that we’re paying attention. We recognize that there’s challenges that are out there, and any one of us could be experiencing some of that.”
According to United Way of Northeast Florida, nearly 39% of households in the region face financial hardship.
