Supporting Financial Stability for Working Families
Across Hancock County, many hardworking families are employed and contributing to the local economy but still struggle to cover basic needs like childcare, housing, transportation, food and healthcare.
These households are often referred to as ALICE, or Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed. They earn more than the federal poverty level but not enough to keep up with the true cost of living. For these families, a single unexpected expense or emergency — such as a car repair, medical bill or sudden loss of income — can quickly push them into financial crisis.
United Way of Hancock County’s Financial Stability Initiative focuses on practical supports that help ALICE families stay employed, keep more of what they earn and access essential services. Financial stability is built by addressing real-life barriers that can quickly derail a household budget.
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)
One way we support financial stability is by helping families retain more of their income through free, trusted tax preparation services. United Way of Hancock County manages the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program, which provides free tax preparation and electronic filing for income-eligible residents.
During the 2025 tax season, trained volunteers donated more than 2,100 hours to prepare over 1,000 state and federal tax returns for Hancock County residents. This effort generated just under $1 million in financial impact for local families. For many ALICE households, tax refunds and credits are critical tools for paying down debt, covering essential expenses or building a small financial cushion.
By removing the cost and complexity of tax preparation, VITA helps working families keep more of what they earn and take meaningful steps toward long-term financial stability.
Hancock Area Transportation System
Reliable transportation is essential for maintaining employment, accessing healthcare and managing daily responsibilities. Without it, even a short disruption can make it difficult to stay on track financially.
We partner with the Hancock Area Transportation System to provide free and low-cost transportation to work, medical appointments and other essential destinations. The program is available to anyone in the community, but it is especially valuable for individuals and families who face challenges affording transportation.
Access to dependable transportation helps people stay connected to jobs, services and opportunities that support long-term financial stability and overall well-being.
Maximizing Household Resources
United Way of Hancock County works to help families make their resources go further, especially when it comes to food. In partnership with the Hancock County Farmers’ Market and the OSU Extension Office, we helped establish the ability for SNAP benefits to be used at our community's farmers' market.
Building on that, we support the Produce Perks program, which matches SNAP dollars spent on fresh produce one to one. This allows families to access more healthy food while also supporting local farmers, stretching grocery budgets and promoting nutrition throughout the community.
Building Stability Through Community Partnerships
In addition to direct programs, United Way of Hancock County works alongside local organizations, employers and community partners to strengthen systems that support families. This includes expanding access to childcare, improving workforce supports and increasing opportunities for financial education and mentoring.
ALICE families are the backbone of Hancock County’s workforce. When they have access to services like VITA and HATS, they are better positioned to remain stable, advance economically and contribute to a stronger community. United Way of Hancock County remains committed to removing barriers and creating pathways toward lasting financial independence.