Across our 27-town footprint, more than 300,000 of our neighbors—40% of households—find it difficult to make ends meet because the cost of living is just too high. These individuals and families, collectively known as ALICE® (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed), face constant financial strain and are often one emergency away from crisis.

At United Way of Coastal and Western Connecticut, we envision a community where every person is healthy, safe, and economically secure. Our mission is to address critical needs and advance equitable pathways to well-being and financial security for everyone. 

OUR BLUEPRINT FOR CHANGE

To create meaningful and lasting change in our community, United Way of Coastal and Western Connecticut employs a comprehensive strategy that centers around our commitment to equity and community. It includes addressing critical needs and creating long-term lasting change through:

• Advocacy | Championing policies that enhance economic opportunities, improve access to services, and provide a safety net.
• Collective Action | Addressing root causes of economic instability through partnerships and systemic change.
• Community Partnerships | Convening stakeholders from various sectors to drive community-wide change.
• Direct Service | Expanding programs to provide immediate support to ALICE households.
• Grantmaking | Funding local nonprofits to amplify efforts in supporting ALICE.

WE CAN'T DO THIS WITHOUT YOU

Your contribution is essential in building a strong support system for ALICE households. By providing immediate assistance, funding local nonprofits, advancing policy changes, and supporting cradle-to-career programs, you help create a safety net that lifts up families and fosters a more equitable community.

When you choose to designate your gift to United Way of Coastal and Western Connecticut, you are supporting neighbors that are working to make ends meet. Together, we can build a stronger, more resilient community where every person is healthy, safe, and economically secure.