United Way of Northern New Jersey created the ALICE measure in 2009 and leads the national United For ALICE movement, while serving five counties at home. Here is what it does, how to get help, and how to give.
The affiliate is best known nationally as the birthplace of ALICE. It developed the ALICE name and measurements in 2009 and has led the United For ALICE movement ever since, while funding programs and partners across its home region.
Its service area covers five northern New Jersey counties, accounting for 1,700 square miles and 1.2 million residents. Kiran Gaudioso serves as chief executive officer.
New Jersey residents can dial 211 to reach NJ 211, the statewide helpline. The NJ 211 Partnership, a subsidiary of the United Ways of New Jersey, has administered the dialing code since 2002 and opened its call lines in 2005.
| Program | What it does |
|---|---|
| NJ 211 | The statewide helpline connecting callers to food, housing, and other services. |
| ALICE research | The original ALICE measure of households that work but cannot afford the basics, now used nationwide. |
| Community grants | Funding directed to local programs across five counties. |
| Financial stability | Programs that help working households build a stable footing. |
Because the affiliate created the ALICE measure, its local programs are closely tied to the data it pioneered.
United Way of Northern New Jersey developed the ALICE framework, Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed, in 2009, starting with a pilot in Morris County. The measure put a name to households that earn above the poverty line but still cannot afford a basic budget.
United For ALICE has since grown into a national movement, with United Ways in more than half of U.S. states using the data to guide their work.
You can donate directly, give through a workplace campaign, or designate a gift to a specific cause. Donations support the affiliate's grants and ALICE work.
Volunteers help across the region's programs. United Way of Northern New Jersey's EIN for tax-deductible gifts is 22-1487247, and it is listed on nonprofit databases for donors who want to review its finances.
The original ALICE measure, now used nationwide.
The statewide helpline connecting callers to services.
The national movement the affiliate founded and leads.
Funding directed to local programs across five counties.
Programs that help households build stability.
Payroll campaigns that fund the affiliate's work.
Sources: United Way of Northern New Jersey (unitedwaynnj.org) and United For ALICE; NJ 211 Partnership; ProPublica and GuideStar (EIN 22-1487247). Retrieved June 2026. We are not affiliated with United Way of Northern New Jersey and receive no compensation for this listing. Spotted an error? [email protected]
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