The United Way says many Syracuse-area families are on the cusp of poverty as they struggle to pay for basic needs. In Onondaga County, data shows that actual costs of living are unsustainable for families and individuals considered to be just above the federal poverty line. The United Way is using the ALICE program to empower them. It stands for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed. Chief Impact Officer Alissa Tubbs says 39 percent of ALICE households in the county are struggling financially.