United Way Horry County to Host 2026 State of Our Families Event on March 19

CONWAY, S.C. — United Way of Horry County will host the 2026 State of Our Families on March
19, 2026, from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. at the HGTC Conference Center, bringing together community
leaders, partners, and residents to examine the financial realities facing families across Horry
County.

This year’s event, presented by First Citizens Bank, will introduce ALICE—Asset Limited, Income
Constrained, Employed households—who earn above the federal poverty level but continue to
struggle to afford basic necessities such as housing, childcare, food, transportation, and healthcare.
ALICE households represent a significant portion of the local workforce and are essential to the
region’s economic stability.

The 2026 State of Our Families will also serve as the public rollout of United Way Horry County’s
updated Community Game Plan, a strategic framework outlining clear, data-driven approaches to
addressing the challenges ALICE households face and strengthening pathways to long-term
financial stability across the county.

“Understanding the realities of ALICE households is critical to creating solutions that truly support
working families,” said Blakely Roof, President and CEO. “This event provides an opportunity for
our community to align around shared data, shared priorities, and shared action.”

Attendees will gain insight into local data trends, learn about priority strategies identified in the
Community Game Plan, and explore opportunities for collaboration across sectors to strengthen
families and communities throughout Horry County.

The event is open to community leaders, nonprofit and business partners, educators, healthcare
professionals, elected officials, and residents interested in advancing financial stability and family
well-being.

State of our Families is generously sponsored by Santee Cooper, Heyd & Co. and Coastal Carolina
National Bank.
For more information or to register, visit https://unitedwayhorry.org/2026-state-of-our-families/

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About United Way of Horry County: United Way of Horry County’s mission is to unite people, ideas, and
resources to advance the common good in Horry County. Together, we can create an equitable community
where opportunity is not limited, and every member reaches their full potential. Learn more at unitedwayhorry.org.