Financial stability

We believe that every family should have the opportunity to afford basic necessities and save for a brighter future.

We focus on programs that put dollars back into the pockets of hard-working people while helping them manage their money on a limited budget.

According to the 2020 CT ALICE Report, more than one-third of CT households are without any financial cushion and do not have enough income to cover current and unexpected expenses. Whether it is an appliance that breaks down, a major car repair, a difficult domestic situation, or job loss, we understand that sometimes people face financial crises that are beyond their control. 

2021-2022 FINANCIAL STABILITY Impact

Marge has been battling liver cancer for the past 3 years. Her multiple doctor visits every week make it very difficult for her to work or earn income. She is a mother of three children, the youngest of whom is a freshman in high school. She tries to maintain a stable life for her family while her husband works, but life has been difficult with high medical expenses and only one income during the pandemic. an emergency assistance grant allowed her family to remain in their apartment while she continued to receive treatment.

— Person to Person, Recipient of United Way COVID Grant

2021-2022 Initiatives

  • Provides individuals with access to free online financial coaching and matched savings to help people get in the habit of saving more

  • Free financial coaching and workshops to build financial literacy

  • Free tax preparation services to ensure every family gets the tax credits and returns they are eligible for.

  • Local community volunteers help distribute federal Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP) funds to expand the capacity of food and shelter programs in high-need areas within Western Connecticut. The following are priority areas: rent/mortgage assistance, utility assistance, mass shelter costs, other shelter, and mass feeding (served meals or food pantry). United Way does not make funding decisions for EFSP.

  • Older adults can save on their property taxes by volunteering with nonprofits in Danbury

  • Supports families in need of financial support at the holidays by matching them with donors throughout Northern Fairfield County and Southern Litchfield County

Veronica works at a private nursing home, preparing baked goods and hot meals for residents. her job was recently expanded to include administrative responsibilities. To improve her skills, veronica enrolled in TBICO’s digital literacy program, where she also learned about TBICO’s Money Gym. she began working with a budget coach to help get her finances in order. now that veronica had a stable income, she was motivated to improve her financial position and skills. Within six months of working with a budget coach, Veronica achieved the first of her financial goals—she paid off a credit card. This success has motivated her to keep moving forward, to open a savings account, and continue managing her money rather than living paycheck to paycheck.

— The Bridge to Independence and Career Opportunities (TBICO), United Way Funded Partner