Augusta, ME — United Way of Kennebec Valley (UWKV) is spotlighting the health-related challenges of the local ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) population through a series of powerful illustrations as part of its 2024 “Unignorable” campaign. These posters capture the real-life struggles of individuals and families living paycheck to paycheck, focusing on critical barriers such as affordable housing, access to healthcare, and quality education — factors that impact both financial and physical well-being.
To further highlight these challenges, Michelle Tibbetts, director of marketing for UWKV, has developed 10 impactful illustrations, five of which specifically address health-related issues faced by ALICE households. Designed in a bold reddish-orange color, these visuals are meant to evoke discomfort and foster a deeper understanding of the pressing issues affecting the community. Each illustration tells a story of hardship, ranging from domestic violence and substance use disorder to mental health struggles and the isolation often linked to financial strain. “We want these illustrations to make people feel uncomfortable and leave a lasting impression,” Tibbetts explained. “The colors and imagery are designed to spark conversation and encourage people to confront the challenges many in our community face daily.”
The connection between health and financial stability: The first five posters
While financial stability is the core focus of this year’s UWKV campaign, the organization recognizes that poor health and limited access to quality healthcare are deeply intertwined with financial well-being. Health challenges within the ALICE population directly impact financial stability, just as financial difficulties can significantly affect one’s health. The five health-focused illustrations vividly capture the hidden toll these issues take on individuals and families. In Kennebec County alone, 7,287.7 years of potential life are lost before age 75 (per 100,000 population), according to data from the Impact2032 initiative.
The first five posters in UWKV’s “Unignorable” series focus on some of the barriers to building strong, healthy communities:
- Domestic Violence: Chronic stress from verbal and physical abuse severely impacts mental and physical health, leading to conditions such as anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, sleep disorders, and a weakened immune system. In 2023, the Family Violence Project responded to 8,600 domestic violence cases in Kennebec County.
- Substance Use Disorder: Addiction traps individuals in a relentless cycle of dependency, leaving them disconnected from reality. With an overdose death rate of 39.9 per 100,000, the ongoing crisis of substance use disorder continues to devastate lives, highlighting the urgent need for intervention.
- Social Isolation: For many rural Mainers in particular, financial hardship, illness, and lack of reliable transportation contribute to social isolation, which in turn takes a toll on physical health. This isolation contributes to 218.4 cardiovascular disease deaths per 100,000 population, making it both a public health and social issue.
- Mental Health: The strain of poor mental health, exacerbated by financial stress, leaves many feeling trapped and hopeless. In Kennebec County, nearly 10% of adults report symptoms of depression, contributing to a suicide rate of 18.7 deaths per 100,000.
For more details on each poster and to learn how these issues affect both health and financial stability, visit: uwkv.org/build-strong-healthy-communities/.
UWKV partners with 36 organizations across Kennebec County to advance health, education, and financial stability. Twenty-two of those organizations specifically focus on building strong, healthy communities by addressing critical issues such as access to physical and behavioral healthcare, promoting healthy behavior changes, and removing barriers. The ‘Unignorable’ campaign serves as a powerful call to action, urging the community to address the health and social barriers holding back many families in Kennebec County. Through this effort, UWKV aims to raise $2 million to support unmet needs in the community, ensuring that vital services and resources reach those most affected by these challenges. The community is encouraged to participate in the ‘2% to $2 Million’ challenge, helping UWKV reach its goal and create a thriving, equitable future for all.
“By highlighting the real struggles ALICE households face, we hope to inspire meaningful action and create lasting change in Kennebec County,” said Tibbetts.
The is the first in a series of three emails highlighting the 10 posters. For more information or to get involved, visit www.uwkv.org.
