News

Explore poverty in New York state with WCNY’s public affairs TV series ‘Connect: NY’ ‘Being Poor: Meet ALICE, the Working Poor’ airs at 9 p.m. May 22

by Rouhollah Goudarzi

May 18, 2017

WCNY, Central New York’s public broadcaster, presents a new episode in its “Connect: NY” public affairs TV series. “Being Poor: Meet ALICE, the Working Poor,” at 9 p.m. on May 22.

This episode is the fifth in the new six-part series “Being Poor in New York State.” WCNY director of public affairs, Susan Arbetter hosts the program that explores what it looks like to live in New York State without enough food, clothing, housing, money or means. Viewers are exposed to the world of poverty in New York State and the choices and sacrifices both the urban and rural poor must make every day to survive.

“Being Poor:  Meet ALICE, the Working Poor”

9 p.m. May 22

The United Way’s study of financial hardship, nicknamed “ALICE” refers to Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed.

“Connect: NY” spends a day in the life of a woman who has done everything possible to pull herself out of a troubled childhood and succeed as an independent person and skilled employee. However, her financial struggles persist with not much hope of change in the near future. “Connect: NY” brings you her story, as well as a panel of experts hoping to inspire a dialogue about the fragility of the important ALICE across this state and what can be done to change their situation.

Joining host Susan Arbetter for a discussion in studio are:

•           Reg Foster – President & CEO, United Way of New York State

•           Ron Deutsch, Executive Director, Fiscal Policy Institute

•           Sharon F. Owens, Syracuse Community Connections

•           Stephanie Hoopes Halpin, Ph.D. – National Director, United Way ALICE Project

Coming up:
“Being Poor:  Real Stories of Hope”
Monday, June 19
“Connect: NY” explores those programs and individuals who are making headway in the fight against poverty in New York State. How they are changing the trajectory of people’s lives, what tools they use to accomplish their goals – and how their work benefits us all.

For more information, visit wcny.org/connectny.