Community Impact Updates - July 08, 2026 Edition

Resources
 
United Way Resources
 

Rooted in Impact

On Rooted in Impact, host Ashley Gaudiano brings you conversations with leaders, changemakers, and community builders working to strengthen Connecticut from the ground up.

Each episode explores what it takes to foster a culture of service, leadership, and connection—highlighting the people and ideas driving meaningful, lasting impact across our communities.

🎧Tune in here to be inspired, informed, and connected.

 

Connecticut Social Equity Council’s Reimagine & Revitalize (R2) Program

United Way Coastal and Western CT is serving as grant manager for Danbury, Norwalk, and Stamford. Funding is available for eligible community-based organizations supporting economic development, reentry, and youth initiatives.

Deadline: Wednesday, July 15th, 2026

Apply Here
 


 
Community Resources

Summer EBT

Summer EBT (S-EBT) returns this summer. S-EBT provides families with children a one-time benefit of $120 per eligible child that works like SNAP to help pay for food during the summer. Most children in low-income households are automatically eligible and will receive the benefits without having to apply. If a household doesn’t meet automatic eligibility status, an application is available here.

Discounted Phone and Internet Service

Connecticut Lifeline Discount program helps to lower the monthly cost of phone and/or internet services up to $9.25 a month. Those living on qualifying Tribal lands can receive up to $34.25 a month. The Lifeline discount is limited to one discount per household. 

To be eligible, a household member must receive benefits from one of the following programs: Medicaid (HUSKY), SNAP, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Federal Public Housing Assistance (Section 8), VA Veterans Pension, or VA Survivors Pension.  

Visit lifelinesupport.org/ to apply and learn more. The Lifeline Program is offered by several other companies in Connecticut. Click here to find one that is right for you. 


Community Resources - Greater Stamford 
 

Baby’s Social Club 
Thursday, July 9th | 10:30 – 11:30 AM at Ferguson Library (Lower-Level Community Area)  

Parents and caregivers of children ages 0-5, join us for our next Baby Social Club featuring Tashi Shuler – Drakes, Family & Community Engagement Specialists at Sparkler Learning.  

Learn about Camp Sparker 2026 – a free 10–week virtual program filled with engaging activities and resources to support your child’s early learning and development.  

Youth Summer Impact Series

Looking for volunteer hours this summer? Join the Youth Summer Impact Series to earn service hours, build leadership skills, meet new people, and make a difference in the Stamford community. Sign up today! 

Register Here  
 


Community Resources - Greater Norwalk

 

Norwalk Summer Meals Sites 
Monday – Friday July 6th to July 31st 

No cost meals for all kids, all summer. Meals are free to any child age 18 and under, no questions asked. Want to help us spread the word? See participating sites in Norwalk and surrounding towns.  

Learn More


Community Resource Day x Block Party 
Saturday, July 25th | 10:00 – 3:00 PM at 30 Day Street, Norwalk, CT 06854 

Join Youth Business Initiative and community partners for an exciting day of connection, resources, and celebration in Norwalk! Our Community Resource Day x Block Party brings together local organizations providing hands-on direct services, community resources, networking, and fun for all ages. Whether you're looking for support, exploring local programs, or simply enjoying a day with neighbors, this event is for you.


Community Resources - Greater Bridgeport

Creating Seeds of Hope
Saturday, July 18th | 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM at The Gazebo – Greens Apartments  

Join us at The Gazebo, Greens Apartments in Bridgeport for a meaningful afternoon of reflection, creativity, planting, and connection. 

Together, we'll nurture hope, set intentions for growth, and strengthen community bonds. Refreshments and workshop materials will be provided, and participation is completely FREE! 

Space is limited to 20 participants. Reserve your spot today and let's plant seeds for a brighter tomorrow.

 

2026 Bridgeport Farmers Market 

Bridgeport Farmers Markets are back for the 2026 season with locations throughout Bridgeport, Stratford, and Black Rock. Shop local produce, support area farmers, and take advantage of $5 Bridgeport Bucks, SNAP/EBT matching, and Senior/WIC FMNP bonus vouchers. Find a market near you and enjoy the best of the season! 
 


Community Resources - Greater Danbury

Infant Massage Classes  

A five-session series of Infant Massage Classes will begin on Tuesday, July 14th at the Families Network of Western CT. The classes are free, but you must register to attend.  

For more information, call Families Network at (203) - 791 – 8773 or register at the link below.  

Register Here.


Community Resources - Greater New Milford

ESL Cafe at the Library  
Thursday, July 9th | 6:00 – 7: 30 PM at New Milford Public Library 

 
Join us for ESL Cafe, where you can build confidence speaking English in a relaxed, welcoming environment. Tutors from Literacy Volunteers on the Green will be there to guide conversations, answer questions, and help everyone feel comfortable. 


Have questions? Visit www.unitedwaycwc.org/grant-opportunities or contact Archeline Youte at archeline.youte@unitedwaycwc.org.