TAKE ACTION
UWCWC Regional Volunteer Engagement 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.
Interested in learning more and joining the volunteer platform? Contact archeline.youte@unitedwaycwc.org.
Policy Background: Since July 2025, approximately 35,000 Connecticut residents have lost SNAP, and beginning in January 2027, an estimated 130,000–158,000 are at risk of losing HUSKY D (Medicaid)—not due to an unwillingness to work or volunteer, but to burdensome eligibility, documentation, and reporting requirements. H.R. 1 has also made an estimated 1,745 refugees and asylum seekers categorically ineligible for SNAP. Certain noncitizens will also become categorically ineligible for HUSKY D beginning in October 2026.
EVENTS
CT Mirror | In The Room with Sen. Chris Murphy
August 26, 6:00 PM | 1049 Asylum Ave, Hartford & Livestream
Join CT Mirror for a conversation with Sen. Chris Murphy about the state of the Democratic Party, his political aspirations, and the changing role of the U.S. on the global stage.
Hosted by John Dankosky, the discussion is part of CT Mirror’s In The Room series exploring the policies and people shaping Connecticut and beyond. Free to attend - Registration required.
CWESEO | Connecticut Economic Opportunity Summit
September 9, 10 AM-3 PM | Legislative Office Building, Hartford
A gathering focused on advancing economic opportunity, exploring strategies to strengthen financial security, and bringing together leaders, advocates, and community partners working to create a more equitable Connecticut.
Learn from experts, connect with peers, and discuss solutions to expand opportunity across the state. Reserve a spot today.
ALICE Launch Event
September 10, 9:30 AM | CT State Capitol, Room 310, Hartford
Join United Ways from across CT as we unveil the latest ALICE Update and 2026 Policy Agenda, exploring innovative solutions to address the financial struggles facing hardworking Connecticut residents.
Together, we’ll discuss ways to strengthen the movement for ALICE and create a Connecticut where everyone can thrive. RSVP to the event.
NEWS AND RESOURCES
Listen to Rooted in Impact, a United Way Podcast
- Many immigrants with legal status could lose Medicare coverage Read the story
- Head Start Could Soon Be Overhauled. Here’s Exactly What Would Change Read the story
- Lost SNAP? What to know about CT grocery card benefit Read the story
- Greater Bridgeport and Norwalk CAP Agency – Alliance for Community Empowerment
- Greater Danbury, New Milford and Stamford CAP Agency – Community Action Agency of Western CT
Learn More About HUSKY D and SNAP Changes and Early Outreach Strategies:
- CHA’s Understanding New HUSKY D Work Rules and Building Early Patient Awareness Webinar Presentation and Recording
- CHA HUSKY D Messaging Starter Kit and Local Coverage Planning Coalition Planning Playbook
- DSS Benefits and H.R.1 Guide, including a HUSKY D and SNAP Prescreeners to determine if work requirements may apply to you.
Have questions? Visit www.unitedwaycwc.org/advocate or contact Tida Infahsaeng at tida.infahsaeng@unitedwaycwc.org.