Building connected communities through policy

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Connection, belonging, and community are essential to the health and well-being of all residents. The CT Collaborative to End Loneliness urges lawmakers to apply a social health lens to every policy and legislative decision, ensuring that measures support social connection and strengthen communities across the state.

Key Policy Objectives

Lawmakers are encouraged to consider initiatives that:

• Create opportunities for connection: Support accessible community spaces, public gathering areas, and programs that foster interaction across all ages.
   
• Encourage cross-sector collaboration: Promote partnerships among local governments, nonprofits, and community organizations to strengthen social ties and reduce loneliness.
   
• Enhance transportation and mobility: Ensure residents have affordable and accessible transportation to reach friends, family, and community activities.
   
• Promote social infrastructure and neighborhood design: Incentivize walkable neighborhoods, parks, libraries, and other “third places” where residents can naturally build connections.
   
• Educate and raise awareness: Support initiatives that teach the value of social health and help residents build meaningful relationships in their communities.
   

By considering social health in policymaking, Connecticut can prevent loneliness, foster connection, and create stronger, more resilient communities for residents of all ages.