New Greenwich United Way Needs Assessment Shows Mental Health, Education, Housing Remain Key Concerns for Greenwich

June 20, 2026 - 19:48

The latest community needs assessment from the Greenwich United Way reveals that mental health services, early childhood education, and affordable housing continue to be the top priorities for local residents and stakeholders. The findings closely mirror the results of the 2020 survey, indicating that these issues have not only persisted but may have deepened over the past several years.

According to the report, access to mental health care remains a significant challenge, particularly for young people and families. Survey respondents cited long wait times for appointments, a shortage of providers, and the high cost of treatment as major barriers. Early childhood education also emerged as a critical area, with many families struggling to find affordable, high-quality daycare and preschool options. Housing affordability was the third key concern, as rising rents and property values continue to push low- and middle-income residents out of the area.

The assessment gathered input from hundreds of community members, including local nonprofit leaders, school officials, and town residents. The data is intended to guide the United Way's funding priorities and help local organizations target their resources more effectively. While the report does not offer specific solutions, it underscores the need for coordinated efforts across public and private sectors to address these long-standing challenges.