Latest news with #ALICE
Yahoo
11-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
United Way announces program to help people strenghten careers
Jul. 10—WATERTOWN — The United Way of Northern New York has launched a new program that will help empower individuals to strengthen their careers. The program, titled Getting Ahead in the Workplace, begins on Aug. 6 and will be held on Wednesdays from 4 to 7 p.m inside the Flower Memorial Library. "This innovative workshop is a natural extension of United Way's work with ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) families — hardworking individuals who are struggling to achieve financial stability. Getting Ahead in the Workplace provides ALICE workers and other under-resourced individuals with tools to build stability, grow in their jobs, and plan for long-term success," United Way stated in a news release. The program will have participants building resources at home, in the workplace, and in the community; work on communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills; navigate hidden rules and unspoken expectations in the workplace; budgeting, debt-to-income analysis, and strategies for increasing economic stability; applying tools for negotiation, mediation, and managing change at work; and participants will also write a personal "Future Story" to help with long-term goals. In addition to working on those aspects, participants are also going to connect with local resources. Each participant, called an investigator, will receive a workbook, weekly $35 gift card incentive, a shared meal, and transportation assistance if needed. Overall, there have been over 30 Getting Ahead cohorts that have served north country residents, but the first time it's been held locally, United Way stated in the news release. United Way says to learn more by visiting calling 315-788-5631, or emailing info@
Yahoo
17-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Hammer & Anvil Announces Upcoming Launch of Groundbreaking VR Film, Unearthing
Hammer & Anvil announces its upcoming release, Unearthing, a documentary that explores the hidden world of paleontology through stunning virtual reality storytelling. Toronto, Canada, June 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Unearthing Hammer & Anvil, an immersive media studio known for its cutting-edge virtual reality (VR) experiences crafted for museums, announces the release of Unearthing, its latest VR production. This work signifies a step forward in advancing educational storytelling. Combining cinematic 360° video, lifelike spatial audio, and high-fidelity animation, Unearthing aims to deliver a fully immersive journey into the world of paleontology. 'There's a moment, when the dust settles after production, where you finally step back and see what you've made and what it means,' Hammer & Anvil founder Nelson Dunk shares. 'Unearthing is about time, persistence, and human curiosity. We wanted to showcase not just the dinosaurs but also the people who devote their lives to understanding them. This is what immersive storytelling should do. It should move people beyond the surface and into the heartbeat of the subject.' Unearthing takes viewers on a journey that highlights the thrill and the reality of unearthing ancient fossils. Audiences will virtually join two renowned paleontologists as they navigate the scorched Utah desert and the pounding waves of Chesapeake Bay while rappelling down unstable cliffs and racing against erosion to rescue irreplaceable specimens. Hammer & Anvil The film combines 360° footage and stunning animated sequences that transport the viewer back in time, bringing to life fearsome Allosaurus and gliding Pterosaurs in vivid detail. As viewers look around from within their VR headsets, they'll find themselves standing beside fossil digs, inside preparation labs, and witnessing the dynamic environment of prehistoric Earth. This latest project is an extension of Hammer & Anvil's mission to redefine how people learn by turning museums into portals through space and time. The company's work is anchored in the belief that educational tools should inform and inspire and that VR can make learning personal and unforgettable when executed with craft and purpose. Unearthing embodies that philosophy, giving museum visitors the feeling of being there, of sweating under the sun with scientists and touching the bones of a creature that walked the earth millions of years ago. Dunk founded Hammer & Anvil to bridge professional filmmaking and educational content. Through the use of 360° VR, visitors can virtually explore otherwise inaccessible locations, from prehistoric landscapes to the far reaches of space. These experiences are delivered through Hammer & Anvil's Advanced Learning Immersive Cinema Experience (ALICE), a scalable, turnkey VR theater system tailored for institutions of all sizes. Museums can configure the ALICE in spaces as small as 1000 sq ft with seats for as few as 5 visitors to 100 or more. ALICE offers a plug-and-play setup that includes headsets, software, training, and full technical support, requiring nothing more than a basic internet connection. The system was designed to eliminate technical, spatial, and financial barriers, allowing even small or mid-sized museums to offer awe-inspiring, premium programming. As Unearthing nears its public debut, Hammer & Anvil is already developing its next VR film. Shifting from the ancient past to the far future, this next immersive adventure will focus on the fascinating field of exoplanetary science. It will continue Hammer & Anvil's tradition of blending rich educational content and jaw-dropping immersion. Media Contact Name: Nelson Dunk Email: inquiries@ Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
31-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
47% of Florida households don't make enough to cover the basics — and a growing number are now 65 and up
A new report from the United Way's ALICE project reveals a troubling 47% of Florida households don't earn enough to cover basic living expenses. ALICE stands for 'asset-limited, income-constrained and employed' and refers to households that are above the poverty line but earn less than what the organization says is needed to afford the basics depending on household composition and location. This includes housing, child care, food, transportation, health care and technology, plus taxes and a contingency fund that equals 10% of a household's budget. Thanks to Jeff Bezos, you can now become a landlord for as little as $100 — and no, you don't have to deal with tenants or fix freezers. Here's how I'm 49 years old and have nothing saved for retirement — what should I do? Don't panic. Here are 5 of the easiest ways you can catch up (and fast) Nervous about the stock market in 2025? Find out how you can access this $1B private real estate fund (with as little as $10) The report, which focuses on data from 2023, says the average 'survival budget' in Florida ranged from $33,804 for a single adult up to $86,688 for a family of four with two adults and two children in child care. Of the state's nearly 9 million households, 13% lived below the federal poverty line while 34% were considered ALICE. The poverty line in 2023 was $14,580 for individuals and $30,000 for a family of four. In some areas, the 'survival budget' was much higher. Monroe County, for example, was among the most expensive places, with necessities costing single adults $45,948 and two adults with two kids in child care $106,608. The ALICE classification shines a spotlight on households who may earn too much to qualify for traditional aid programs but not enough to meet the rising cost of living. This includes Florida's senior households, which make up the largest portion of this group by age. 'More and more households 65 and older are now classified as ALICE,' Ernest Hooper, Chief Communications Officer at United Way Suncoast, told ABC Action News in a story published May 19. 'They're living paycheck to paycheck and not saving money.' That includes people like Leonora Gaspar, who's disabled and on a fixed income. She relies on organizations like Feeding Tampa Bay for some free meals. 'It helps a lot,' she told ABC Action News. 'The rent, it's more expensive.' Other residents in need pointed to skyrocketing food costs. 'I'm spending at least $300 to $400 just on food,' Felicia Acosta told ABC Action News. She says her husband died last year and she provides for her three grandchildren. Florida's high cost of living compounds the issue. As of May 9, ranked Florida's cost of living at 9.35% higher than the national average. Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says — and that 'anyone' can do it Compared to other states, Florida's cost of living is on the higher end. For families struggling to close the gap, here are some practical steps: Call 211 for local help: United Way operates a free 211 hotline that connects people to local nonprofits, food assistance, childcare programs, rent relief and more. Apply for benefits: ALICE households may still qualify for support like SNAP, Medicaid for children or subsidized child care. Don't assume you're ineligible or that others need it more — these programs exist to help families. Revisit your housing options: If you're renting, consider renegotiating your lease or exploring income-based housing programs. Housing is often a family's single biggest expense — and the hardest to change — so start there. If possible, consider sharing housing with extended family or friends to reduce expenses. Cut food costs without sacrificing nutrition: Shop at local markets, consider bulk stores and use community food pantries as a supplement when needed. If you have children in public school, ask the school social worker about additional food and support programs. Build toward financial security: Even saving $10 or $20 a week in a high-yield savings account can provide a buffer. You can also track your spending and find areas to trim. Connect with mutual aid groups: Some neighborhoods have hyper-local support networks where community members share resources like gently used clothing, extra food, school supplies or household goods. Search online or on social media for a group near you. Here are 5 'must have' items that Americans (almost) always overpay for — and very quickly regret. How many are hurting you? Rich, young Americans are ditching the stormy stock market — here are the alternative assets they're banking on instead Robert Kiyosaki warns of a 'Greater Depression' coming to the US — with millions of Americans going poor. But he says these 2 'easy-money' assets will bring in 'great wealth'. How to get in now This is how American car dealers use the '4-square method' to make big profits off you — and how you can ensure you pay a fair price for all your vehicle costs Like what you read? Join 200,000+ readers and get the best of Moneywise straight to your inbox every week. This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.
Yahoo
31-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
47% of Florida households don't make enough to cover the basics — and a growing number are now 65 and up
A new report from the United Way's ALICE project reveals a troubling 47% of Florida households don't earn enough to cover basic living expenses. ALICE stands for 'asset-limited, income-constrained and employed' and refers to households that are above the poverty line but earn less than what the organization says is needed to afford the basics depending on household composition and location. This includes housing, child care, food, transportation, health care and technology, plus taxes and a contingency fund that equals 10% of a household's budget. Thanks to Jeff Bezos, you can now become a landlord for as little as $100 — and no, you don't have to deal with tenants or fix freezers. Here's how I'm 49 years old and have nothing saved for retirement — what should I do? Don't panic. Here are 5 of the easiest ways you can catch up (and fast) Nervous about the stock market in 2025? Find out how you can access this $1B private real estate fund (with as little as $10) The report, which focuses on data from 2023, says the average 'survival budget' in Florida ranged from $33,804 for a single adult up to $86,688 for a family of four with two adults and two children in child care. Of the state's nearly 9 million households, 13% lived below the federal poverty line while 34% were considered ALICE. The poverty line in 2023 was $14,580 for individuals and $30,000 for a family of four. In some areas, the 'survival budget' was much higher. Monroe County, for example, was among the most expensive places, with necessities costing single adults $45,948 and two adults with two kids in child care $106,608. The ALICE classification shines a spotlight on households who may earn too much to qualify for traditional aid programs but not enough to meet the rising cost of living. This includes Florida's senior households, which make up the largest portion of this group by age. 'More and more households 65 and older are now classified as ALICE,' Ernest Hooper, Chief Communications Officer at United Way Suncoast, told ABC Action News in a story published May 19. 'They're living paycheck to paycheck and not saving money.' That includes people like Leonora Gaspar, who's disabled and on a fixed income. She relies on organizations like Feeding Tampa Bay for some free meals. 'It helps a lot,' she told ABC Action News. 'The rent, it's more expensive.' Other residents in need pointed to skyrocketing food costs. 'I'm spending at least $300 to $400 just on food,' Felicia Acosta told ABC Action News. She says her husband died last year and she provides for her three grandchildren. Florida's high cost of living compounds the issue. As of May 9, ranked Florida's cost of living at 9.35% higher than the national average. Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says — and that 'anyone' can do it Compared to other states, Florida's cost of living is on the higher end. For families struggling to close the gap, here are some practical steps: Call 211 for local help: United Way operates a free 211 hotline that connects people to local nonprofits, food assistance, childcare programs, rent relief and more. Apply for benefits: ALICE households may still qualify for support like SNAP, Medicaid for children or subsidized child care. Don't assume you're ineligible or that others need it more — these programs exist to help families. Revisit your housing options: If you're renting, consider renegotiating your lease or exploring income-based housing programs. Housing is often a family's single biggest expense — and the hardest to change — so start there. If possible, consider sharing housing with extended family or friends to reduce expenses. Cut food costs without sacrificing nutrition: Shop at local markets, consider bulk stores and use community food pantries as a supplement when needed. If you have children in public school, ask the school social worker about additional food and support programs. Build toward financial security: Even saving $10 or $20 a week in a high-yield savings account can provide a buffer. You can also track your spending and find areas to trim. Connect with mutual aid groups: Some neighborhoods have hyper-local support networks where community members share resources like gently used clothing, extra food, school supplies or household goods. Search online or on social media for a group near you. Here are 5 'must have' items that Americans (almost) always overpay for — and very quickly regret. How many are hurting you? Rich, young Americans are ditching the stormy stock market — here are the alternative assets they're banking on instead Robert Kiyosaki warns of a 'Greater Depression' coming to the US — with millions of Americans going poor. But he says these 2 'easy-money' assets will bring in 'great wealth'. How to get in now This is how American car dealers use the '4-square method' to make big profits off you — and how you can ensure you pay a fair price for all your vehicle costs Like what you read? Join 200,000+ readers and get the best of Moneywise straight to your inbox every week. This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
29-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Somerset teacher shortage, leaders warn of worsening child care crisis
SOMERSET COUNTY, Pa. (WTAJ) — A growing shortage of child care teachers is shutting down classrooms and straining working families across Pennsylvania, prompting Somerset County leaders to call for urgent state investment. At a press conference Thursday hosted at The Learning Lamp Center for Children, lawmakers, business advocates and child care experts detailed the economic fallout of the staffing crises, pointing to recent state and local surveys. According to a statewide survey of child care providers, 92% reported difficulty recruiting staff, while 85% cited ongoing shortages. In Somerset County alone, 17 positions remain unfilled, leaving more than 200 children without care. Dr. Leah Spangler, CEO of The Learning Lamp, said the Somerset location is down seven teachers. If fully staffed, it could serve an additional 63 children. Across six locations in Somerset, Cambria, Fayette and Westmoreland counties, 48 open jobs translate into nearly 300 children unable to access care. Business leaders also shared the results of a Pennsylvania Chamber Survey, which found that 81% of employers are struggling with recruitment and retention due to limited child care options. Another 69% said helping employees meet child care needs is 'extremely or very important.' The economic toll is staggering. A ReadyNation and PA Early Learning Investment Commission report estimates the child care crisis is costing the state $6.65 billion annually in lost earnings, productivity and tax revenue. State Senator Pat Stefano (R-32), who attended the press conference, emphasized the broader implications. 'For every teacher that we're missing, we're missing those students that could be filling those spots,' Stefano said. 'Which means there are mothers and fathers who can't go to work. Creating a workforce crisis.' The event also pointed out the United Way's latest Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed (ALICE) report, which shows 45% of Somerset County households earn below the ALICE Threshold, meaning they struggle to afford basic needs despite being employed. The average child care teacher salary, $29,480, sites just $764 above the minimum survival budget for a single adult in Somerset County. Poll results released by the Early Learning PA Coalition showed overwhelming public support for action. Among 700 likely voters surveyed, 98% agreed early childhood education is vital, and 83% supported more state funding for child care teacher recruitment and retention. Advocates are now urging lawmakers to back Governor Josh Shapiro proposed $55 million budget item that would provide licensed child care centers an extra $1,000 per educator to fill vacancies and stabilize the workforce. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
