United Way of Connecticut
 May 2009

2-1-1  |  2-1-1 Child Care  |  Child Development Infoline  |  HUSKY Infoline  |  Community Results Center
Message from Rick Porth
President, United Way of Connecticut

CEOUnited Way 2-1-1 is experiencing a steady increase in requests for service for SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, formerly known as Food Stamps). In the 1st quarter of 2009, 2-1-1 received over 2,500 requests for this service, an increase of 41% over the previous quarter. SNAP benefits help struggling households get the food they need. Approximately two-thirds of residents who are eligible for SNAP actually receive the benefit. There are currently efforts underway to increase the percentage of eligible households receiving SNAP benefits. Callers to 2-1-1 seeking various types of basic needs assistance are often screened for SNAP eligibility. Spread the word to all your contacts and networks about SNAP benefits. For more information about food resources visit 211ct.org.

Finding Summer Youth Programs

Need help finding the right summer youth program for your child? 2-1-1 can help! Last year the United Way of Connecticut's 2-1-1 Child Care provided nearly 4,500 referrals for summer youth programs, including camps. The 2-1-1 Child Care database includes general recreation programs, as well as specialty camps to accommodate a wide variety of interests.
2-1-1 Child Care Referral Specialists can also refer callers to child care programs, called camperships, that may help families pay for the cost of summer camps.


 
2-1-1 Top Five Service Requests


Top 5 Service Requests – Statewide

 
1st Quarter 2008
1st Quarter 2009
Percent Change
Utility Assistance
8,949
12,692
41.8%
General Information
4,655
5,465
17.4%
Tax Prep. Assist
3,838
4,482
16.8%
Food Pantries
2,853
3,976
39.4%
Homeless Shelter
3,016
3,239
7.4%
All Requests
113,148
117,797
4.1%

Local 2-1-1 Stats: 2-1-1 most often refers residents who are seeking food assistance to food pantries, SNAP, food cooperatives and soup kitchens. Statewide, referrals for these services increased 45% in the 1st quarter of 2009 compared to the same period last year. Here are the food statistics for your community:

Hartford: 1st quarter 2008: 687 1st quarter 2009: 837

2-1-1 Child Care Annual Capacity Survey Updated

The latest 2-1-1 Child Care Annual Capacity, Availability and Enrollment Survey has just been released. The survey provides a snapshot of the availability of child care in Connecticut and the number of children served. Licensed and licensed-exempt child care programs are surveyed to verify if they are currently operating, the ages served, capacity, vacancy and enrollment. Visit 211childcare.org to view the statewide and regional data. .


Click here to view the 2008 United Way of Connecticut Annual Report.

The mission of the United Way of Connecticut is to help meet the needs of
Connecticut residents by providing information, education and connection to services.

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United Way of Connecticut | 1344 Silas Deane Highway | Rocky Hill, CT 06067 | 860-571-7500

 

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