Bridging the Gap: ALICE 2026
Last week, we joined CT United Ways, community advocates, legislators and coalition partners at the State Capitol to elevate the 2026 ALICE Report and launch the CT United Ways 2026 Policy Agenda.
A special thank you to Bridgeport Prospers Parent Ambassador and CARE Health Leader Nse Obot for sharing his perspective as a father, husband and business owner. His inspirational words underscored the importance of supporting resilient, hardworking families so they can continue to thrive and strengthen the social and economic well-being of our state.
Bridging the Gap: ALICE 2026
Since 2019, the number of Connecticut households below the ALICE Threshold has grown by more than 14%. While the latest data show a modest one-year decline, the broader trend is clear: the gap between what families earn and what it costs to live here isn’t closing on its own.
In the UWCWC region, 42% of households are ALICE or below—nearly half of our neighbors struggling to make ends meet.
Bridging the Gap
- Low- and middle-wage workers’ paychecks delivered 2% less purchasing power from 2021 to 2024
- Basic groceries cost 30% more than before the pandemic
- Gas prices remain more than $1 per gallon higher than last year
- Health insurance and utility providers are seeking double-digit rate increases
- 80% of low-income parents recently said they could not cover a $1,000 emergency expense without going into debt
ALICE families are working, paying taxes, caring for loved ones and contributing to our communities. Together, we can close the gap and build a Connecticut where every family has the opportunity to thrive.
Connecticut United Ways Priorities => Learn more HERE
- Establish a Fully Refundable Connecticut Child Tax Credit to help families meet the rising cost of raising children.
- Invest in 211 to Meet Increasing Demand and ensure Connecticut residents can connect with the resources and support they need.
EVENTS
United Way Coastal and Western Connecticut | 2026 Impact Breakfast
September 24, 2026, 8:00–10:00 AM | Housatonic Community College, Beacon Hall, Bridgeport
Join United Way Coastal and Western Connecticut for the 2026 Impact Breakfast, exploring “The Power of Us” and how connection, belonging, and collective action can build stronger, more resilient communities. We’ll also celebrate local impact and recognize our 2026 ALICE Champions. RSVP Today.
CT CWCSEO | CWCSEO CivicsCon 2026
October 8, 10:00 AM–2:00 PM | Legislative Office Building, 300 Capitol Avenue, Hartford
The Commission on Women, Children, Seniors, Equity & Opportunity’s CivicsCon 2026 is a three-day civic engagement conference exploring Voice, Voting & Volunteerism. Through interactive panels, activities, and community discussions, participants will explore ways to strengthen Connecticut’s civic health, bridge divides, and build stronger communities. Sign up and see more details on the in person and virtual events HERE.
NEWS AND RESOURCES
Listen to Rooted in Impact, a United Way Podcast
- Report: About 570,000 CT households struggle with poverty
- CT families facing economic hardship decreased in 2024, but are on the rise again
- CT will make childcare free or cheaper for some families in 2027
DSS SNAP and HUSKY Updates
How You Can Help
DSS is asking our community partners to help members get ready:
- Encourage up-to-date contact information: Make sure DSS has current phone, email, and address. Save important numbers to recognize DSS calls and texts.
- Promote the prescreeners: It only takes a few minutes and will let you know if you qualify for an exemption.
- Know what counts: Part-time work, job training, community college courses, and formal volunteering may all qualify. Not sure? DSS can help.
Community Partner Outreach Resources
- SNAP and HUSKY Health online prescreeners
- DSS HR-1 information webpage
- DSS HR-1 non-citizen eligibility webpage
Have questions? Visit www.unitedwaycwc.org/advocate or contact Tida Infahsaeng at tida.infahsaeng@unitedwaycwc.org.