In one of the wealthiest counties in the nation, it might be surprising to learn how many families struggle to afford life’s basics. But in Loudoun County, nearly 29% of households live below the threshold of financial stability with 24% falling into the ALICE category: Asset-Limited, Income-Constrained, Employed. These are working families earning above the poverty line, yet still unable to afford essentials like housing, food, child care, and transportation.
They’re families like Liza’s.
A mom of three, including two teenage boys, Liza and her husband both work hourly wage jobs. They’ve picked up extra shifts, accepted raises, and done everything they can to keep up. But even so, the rising cost of groceries, gas, and rent keeps stretching their budget thinner.
“My boys eat a lot,” Liza said with a smile. “We do what we can, but sometimes it’s just not enough.”
For the past two years, Liza has visited Loudoun Hunger Relief a couple of times each month to help make ends meet. She says the fresh vegetables, milk, and meat she receives go a long way in helping her family stay nourished and healthy.
But more than the food, it’s the way she’s treated that stands out.
“This is such a great place,” she said. “The people who work here are amazing. They do such a great job. They make you feel good.”
At Loudoun Hunger Relief, we know that food insecurity doesn’t just affect people out of work—it often affects people at work, raising kids, caring for others, and doing their best every single day. In a community where the cost of living continues to rise, we’re here to make sure no one has to face hunger alone.
Every visit matters. Every neighbor counts.
If you’d like to help families like Liza’s access fresh, healthy food, your support makes a real difference.
Click here to donate and support your Loudoun neighbors.
About ALICE
ALICE stands for Asset-Limited, Income-Constrained, Employed.
The ALICE population includes households that earn more than the Federal Poverty Level but still struggle to afford basic necessities like housing, child care, food, transportation, health care, and technology. ALICE workers keep our communities running—yet often can’t make ends meet themselves.
Sources:
United Way of Virginia’s 2023 ALICE Report
U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (latest available data)
