Resources
United Way Resources
UWCWC Volunteer Platform
United Way Coastal and Western Connecticut has launched a new regional volunteer engagement platform powered by Galaxy Digital. Serving all 27 towns in our region, the platform will connect residents with volunteer opportunities while helping nonprofits, municipalities, and employers recruit and manage volunteers. The platform will also help residents navigate new federal H.R. 1 work requirements by making it easier to find volunteer opportunities and digitally track service hours.
Community Resources
Connecticut Issues $300 Grocery Benefit To State Residents Who Lost SNAP
Connecticut residents who have lost SNAP due to rule changes are eligible to receive a one-time $300 grocery benefit issued as a prepaid virtual grocery card. The benefit is available through an online app and will not be loaded to existing EBT cards.
People who received a DSS notice stating they do not meet the Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWD) requirements since December 1, 2025, and are no longer receiving SNAP qualify for the benefit. The benefit is available to each affected individual in a household. Individuals wishing to receive the benefit, should contact their local community action agency to learn more. Applications may be able to be completed either by email or in person. Locate your local agency by visiting www.cafca.org/agencies.
Partner with CT BEDS: Free Beds and Bedding
CT BEDS is a Connecticut nonprofit organization dedicated to providing safe, comfortable beds and bedding to individuals and families in need throughout the state. CT BEDS partners with nonprofits, schools, shelters, churches, and community organizations that are already serving individuals and families facing difficult circumstances. Through these partnerships, they provide new bed frames, mattresses, pillows, and bedding to children, adults, veterans, and families who do not have access to a proper sleeping environment. The organization works through referral partnerships rather than direct individual requests, allowing them to support people alongside the organizations already walking with them through their challenges. Visit ctbeds.org/ to learn how to become a partner.
Community Resources - Greater Stamford
Stamford Public Schools – Parent Square
Attention Stamford Parents & Guardians! This is a reminder that all school, grade-level, and classroom communication for the 2026-2027 school year are being sent through ParentSquare. Register today!
SCOPES (Stamford Coalition of Parents Expecting Success)
Wednesday, September 9th | 6:30 – 7:30 PM at Cloonan Middle School
Stamford families, join SCOPES (Stamford Coalition of Parents Expecting Success) for a special meet-and-greet with Superintendent Dr. Talley and other special education district leaders. Families will also hear important updates on special education.
Spanish interpretation and a Zoom option will be available. Please register to receive the Zoom link. Register Here
Community Resources - Greater Norwalk
NPS Free and Reduced-Price Meal Application
Beginning with the 2026-2027 school year, Norwalk Public Schools is returning to the traditional Free & Reduced-Price Meal Application process to determine eligibility for free and reduced-price lunches.
Full- Price Meals for 2026-27:
- Breakfast: Universal Free Breakfast
- Lunch: $3.60 (Elementary), $4.00 (Middle), and $4.40 (High school).
Reduced-Price Meals for 2026-27:
- Breakfast: Universal Free Breakfast
- Lunch: $0.40 (All Grade Levels)
Families are encouraged to apply now at www.myschoolapps.com.
Paper applications are also available to print and complete by hand at the NPS Food Services website here.
Community Resources - Greater Bridgeport
Day for Kids
Saturday, September 19th | 11:00 – 3:00 PM
Save the Date for our Bridgeport Day for Kids! In collaboration with Southwest Community Health Center and Bridgeport Caribe Youth Leaders, the annual event is a FREE afternoon of family fun, food, games and community. Registration is required. Register Here
Bridgeport Adult Education | Fall 2026
Bridgeport Adult Education is now enrolling for free classes this fall, August 24th - 27th, including:
- Credit Diploma & GED preparation
- ESOL/English classes
- Digital & financial literacy
- Counseling and future planning
- Flexible day and evening schedules
Fall semester classes begin on August 31st. If someone you know is ready to take the next step toward a diploma, GED, stronger English skills, or a brighter future, share this!
Community Resources - Greater Danbury
Free Parenting Programs Now Enrolling
The Saint Joseph Parenting Center is now enrolling caregivers in its free parenting support programs. Classes are held Tuesdays from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. and include dinner, childcare, and instruction in English and Spanish. Learn, connect, and gain valuable parenting tools in a welcoming environment. Visit sjpcenter.org or call 203-588-1934 x1401 for more information.
Learn More
Community Resources - Greater New Milford
Wealth Management with American Senior Benefits
Monday, August 31st | 5:00 – 6:00 PM at 50 Main Street
Join us at the New Milford Senior Center and learn more about how you can manage your benefits as a senior.
This month's program will cover:
- Planning for long-term care needs
- Pension RMDs
- Goal setting
- Potential 2026 changes to Medicare & Medicaid
- Final expense planning to help ensure healthcare and end-of-life expenses are properly covered.
To RSVP, please contact us at (860) 355 – 6075.
New Milford Youth Agency – Student Advisory Board
The New Milford Youth Agency is looking for motivated students to join our 2026-2027 Student Advisory Board (SAB). If you want to represent please contact Maria Leo at mleo@newmilfordct.gov or (860) 210 – 2030 for more information.
Have questions? Visit www.unitedwaycwc.org/grant-opportunities or contact Archeline Youte at archeline.youte@unitedwaycwc.org.