Although winter can be an unwelcome season for anyone, it brings unique and often severe challenges for Americans who are Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed (ALICE). Even while holding down one or more jobs, ALICE individuals and families struggle to meet basic needs throughout the year, but especially during the holidays and cold months - and all the more so if they live in a cold climate, as residents of northern states such as Pennsylvania do.
From higher utility bills to increased health risks, ALICE populations face compounding issues in winter that are often underrecognized.
Increased Expenses for Winter Supplies
Winter requires additional spending on essential seasonal supplies, from winter coats and boots to home weatherization materials. While these items may seem small, they add up quickly for households operating with minimal discretionary income. It's often not feasible for ALICE families to buy these items without sacrificing funds for other essentials.
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Rising Energy Costs and Utility Insecurity
As winter temperatures drop, heating costs rise, putting an immediate strain on ALICE families who already budget tightly to meet monthly expenses. The demand for heating in colder months causes a surge in energy costs that many low-income households cannot keep up with.
Part of this is due to the fact that low-income housing is often not well insulated or otherwise energy efficient, forcing heating systems to work harder and residents to pay higher energy bills than would be the case in more energy efficient homes. A report from the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University highlights how energy insecurity becomes a serious destabilizing force for financially vulnerable households during a harsh winter, forcing families to make difficult decisions such as choosing whether to heat or eat.
Winter inflation has exacerbated these issues. As of late 2024, Americans were beginning to get some relief from inflation - but prices for essentials such as gasoline, natural gas, and electricity remain unaffordable high for ALICE households. Programs such as the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program and other local utility assistance initiatives provide some relief for vulnerable households, but funding limitations and eligibility restrictions mean not all households in need can access these resources.
As a result of all these factors, many families face a choice between enduring colder temperatures at home and experiencing utility shutoffs as energy providers increase rates to compensate for their operational costs.
Health Risks From Cold Exposure
Beyond financial hardship, ALICE households face serious health risks related to excessive cold in their homes. Those living in energy-poor environments experience higher rates of respiratory illnesses, increased risk for cardiovascular events, and an overall decrease in immune system resilience. These health risks are a form of environmental classism in which low-income households bear the brunt of exposure to preventable weather risks.
For families with children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions, the health implications of a poorly heated home are especially concerning. Children's immune systems are particularly vulnerable to cold exposure, increasing the risk of respiratory illnesses such as asthma and pneumonia. For older adults, even moderate cold exposure can elevate blood pressure and worsen symptoms for those with heart conditions.
Transportation and Access to Basic Resources
Winter weather not only affects indoor living conditions but also creates transportation snarls for both private vehicles and public transit. Those with personal vehicles often struggle with additional costs related to winterizing their cars, purchasing snow tires, or paying for the extra gas demanded by inefficient engines and snow routes. Public transportation systems, on the other hand, are often delayed or shut down due to ice or snow. In rural or underserved areas, public transportation may not be available at all.
All of this hinders ALICE individuals from reaching essential destinations, including job locations, healthcare facilities, pharmacies, and grocery stores. For families living in food deserts - areas without full-service grocery stores that offer affordable, nutritious food - winter presents additional difficulties in filling cupboards and refrigerators with healthy items. Food pantries can address some of these gaps, but their offerings can be limited as winter intensifies demand.
Childcare Costs
Childcare costs also spike in winter, particularly when weather-related school closures leave parents and guardians scrambling to find alternative arrangements. Without affordable, flexible childcare options, ALICE individuals may lose work hours or face additional financial stress from last-minute childcare needs. Employers with limited policies for inclement weather may not offer paid leave or remote work options, leaving parents with the hard choice between staying home with their children or risking their income.
The Role of Nonprofits and Community Support
Food banks, faith-based organizations, community centers, and community-based social services organizations play a vital role in helping ALICE populations get through winter's toughest months. These organizations work to connect people in need with essentials such as winter clothing, blankets, food, heating assistance, and childcare. However, as demand for these services grows, many of these organizations find their resources stretched thin, underscoring the need for more consistent public support.
As the nation waits for government programs and policy measures that can offer lasting solutions for equitable winters, your support for social services nonprofits will help to ensure that ALICE families aren't left in the cold this winter.
Thrive Together This Winter With United Way of York County
United Way of York County in Pennsylvania assists hardworking households on their journey toward financial stability. To meet the needs of the ALICE population, we are embarking on an issue-focused strategy to create a transformational impact for workers. We are focusing on two key barriers: childcare and transportation.
We offer many other resources through PA 211, a free confidential health and human services information and referral hotline. Learn about how to use PA 211 to access resources such as food, clothing, and mental health assistance. Contact us today to get the services you need for a financially successful future!
With one donation, you can help your ALICE neighbors and friends. Gifts to the United Way of York County Impact Fund are dollars that stay in York County and impact lives where you live and work. Please consider giving today!