Kyle DuBuc Vice President, Communications & Advocacy at United Way for Southeastern Michigan.
Seth Johnson Executive Director of United Way of Northwest Michigan
An exclusive conversation with Kyle Du Buc and Seth Johnson provided the following insights regarding the latest ALICE Report
Detroit, MI — Families across Michigan—whether in the heart of Metro Detroit or the rural corners of Northern Michigan—are facing a quiet but growing crisis. Despite holding jobs and working long hours, many are still struggling to afford basic needs like childcare, housing, and healthcare. Now, two of Michigan’s leading community-focused organizations—United Way for Southeastern Michigan and United Way of Northwest Michigan—are joining forces to drive real change with a unified voice.
Together, they are championing the Michigan Working Family Policy Agenda, a comprehensive strategy that addresses the urgent needs of Michigan’s working families and seeks to ensure that geography is no longer a barrier to economic stability.
According to the latest Michigan ALICE Report (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed), nearly 38% of households across the state fall into the ALICE category. These are individuals and families earning more than the federal poverty level but not enough to cover life’s most basic expenses.
“Whether you're in a Detroit neighborhood or a rural town near Traverse City, families are telling us the same thing: they’re working hard and still falling short,” said Dr. Darienne Hudson, President and CEO of United Way for Southeastern Michigan. “This partnership reflects the truth that economic struggle is not limited by zip code.”
Bridging Divides: Why North and South Must Work Together
The collaboration between these two United Way chapters represents more than a policy partnership—it’s a strategic alignment of strengths across regions that have often been viewed as separate worlds. But the reality is clear: the barriers to stability are nearly identical in both urban and rural settings.
“By uniting our efforts, we’re amplifying the voices of working families and creating a statewide movement for change,” said Seth Johnson, Executive Director of United Way of Northwest Michigan. “When we work together, we’re stronger. And our communities deserve nothing less.”
This north-south alliance brings together United Way for Southeastern Michigan’s 100+ years of experience in metropolitan systems change and United Way of Northwest Michigan’s grassroots leadership in rural resource coordination. The result is a well-rounded, inclusive policy platform that works for families in every corner of Michigan.
A Policy Agenda Rooted in Real Needs
The Michigan Working Family Policy Agenda focuses on five key areas:
Workforce Stability
Affordable & Accessible Childcare
Housing Stability & Homeownership Support
Health & Food Security
Protecting the Financial Stability of ALICE Households
Each priority was shaped by what working families have shared directly with United Way partners—concerns about stagnant wages, childcare deserts, and housing costs that consume more than 30% of household income. With 61% of Michigan jobs paying under $20 an hour, expanding the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), increasing childcare subsidies, and boosting housing support are among the proposed solutions.
About the Partners
United Way of Northwest Michigan (UWNWMI) is committed to strengthening communities through strategic partnerships and long-term investments in education, health, and financial stability. With a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator, UWNWMI is recognized for transparency, accountability, and high-impact service across northwest lower Michigan. To join the movement, visit unitedwaynwmi.org or stop by one of their three regional offices.
United Way for Southeastern Michigan, an independently governed nonprofit and member of the United Way Worldwide network, works to ensure families across Macomb, Oakland, Washtenaw, and Wayne counties have access to stable housing, education, food security, and healthcare. For over a century, the organization has led efforts to build stronger, more equitable communities. Learn more at UnitedWaySEM.org.
A Statewide Call to Action
This partnership is a reminder that Michigan’s future depends on recognizing our shared struggles—and working together for shared solutions.
“We’re not just calling on Lansing,” Hudson said. “We’re calling on all of Michigan—residents, nonprofits, businesses, and lawmakers—to recognize that a family’s zip code should not determine their chance at a stable life.”
As more Michigan families fall into the ALICE category, the urgency is growing. This united approach is a powerful model for what’s possible when communities stop working in isolation—and start standing together. For more information :
3011 W. Grand Blvd. Suite 500, Detroit, MI 48202 Visit us at UnitedWaySEM.org
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