Touch A Life Fund

What We Do

The Touch a Life program is a unique, local resource for New Canaan residents who need confidential emergency financial assistance to pay for essential needs.

Professional staff from local social service agencies, schools, and houses of worship can request emergency financial assistance on behalf of residents. Donations to this fund come from New Canaan residents who want to help their neighbors in need.

Confidentiality & Process

All requests are kept strictly confidential, and all payments are made directly to vendors.

  • Eligible Expenses: Rent, utilities, car repairs, summer school, school supplies, food, and other household necessities, child care, summer camp, clothing, funeral expenses, medical bills, and home repairs.

  • Grant Size & Timing: Typical grants to help individuals do not exceed $500, and payments are usually made within a few business days.

FY24 Touch A Life Snapshot

The data below highlights the incredible support provided and the needs addressed during Fiscal Year 2024.

  • Requests Fulfilled

  • Total Assistance Given

  • Partnership Grant

METRICS

DETAILS

26 requests for emergency financial assistance.

$10,890 covering the needs we addressed.

A $27,650 grant was made to the New Canaan Public Schools (NCPS) for extra meals and snacks to students on Free and Reduced-Price Meals.

Dr. Bryan Luizzi, Superintendent of New Canaan Public Schools, shares a brief message on how the New Canaan Community Foundation has supported and strengthened the organization.

Pie Chart of Assistance by Category

A visual representation of how funds were distributed to address essential living, educational, and medical needs. The largest assistance categories included rent, medical expenses, gift cards, car repairs, and utilities.