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West Hartford Approves New Social Services Coordinator

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  Published in Politics and Government on Thursday, February 19th 2026 at 16:39 GMT by Patch
      Locales: Connecticut, UNITED STATES

West Hartford, CT - February 19th, 2026 - The Town of West Hartford took a significant step towards strengthening its social support infrastructure last night, with the Town Council unanimously approving a new, full-time Social Services Coordinator position. The move comes amid growing concerns about increasing resident needs and a desire to proactively address potential vulnerabilities within the community. The approval, made during the council's meeting on Monday, February 18th, signals a renewed commitment to ensuring all residents have access to vital resources.

For years, West Hartford has prided itself on being a welcoming and supportive community. However, like many municipalities across the nation, the town has witnessed a rise in demands for social services, driven by factors such as economic fluctuations, the lingering effects of the pandemic, and an aging population. Existing staff within the Department of Social Services have been stretched thin, creating challenges in efficiently connecting residents with the programs and assistance they require. This new position is intended to alleviate that strain and enhance the quality of service provided.

The Social Services Coordinator will serve as a central point of contact for residents seeking help, assessing individual needs, and navigating the complex landscape of available resources. The role will encompass a wide range of responsibilities, including direct assistance with applications for state and federal aid programs (like SNAP, Medicaid, and housing assistance), referrals to local non-profit organizations, and the development of new initiatives to address emerging community challenges. Beyond reactive assistance, the coordinator is also expected to proactively identify vulnerable populations and develop preventative programs aimed at mitigating potential crises.

Town Manager Matt Hart emphasized the importance of this investment. "This position is an important step to strengthen our support system for residents who need it most," he stated. "We've seen a consistent increase in requests for assistance, and this dedicated role will allow us to respond more effectively and comprehensively to the needs of our community members. It's about ensuring everyone has the opportunity to thrive."

The approved salary range for the position is between $75,000 and $95,000, reflecting the level of experience and expertise expected of the candidate. The town is currently accepting applications and is looking for an individual with a strong background in social work, public administration, or a related field. Candidates will need demonstrated experience in case management, resource coordination, and an understanding of the social service delivery system. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are also critical, as the coordinator will be interacting with residents from diverse backgrounds and facing a variety of sensitive situations.

Local advocacy groups have praised the Town Council's decision. The West Hartford Community Alliance, a coalition of non-profit organizations, released a statement calling the move "a positive and necessary step" towards building a more equitable and resilient community. They highlighted the increasing need for services related to food insecurity, housing instability, and mental health support. They also expressed a willingness to collaborate with the new coordinator to ensure a seamless and coordinated approach to service delivery.

Looking ahead, town officials are also exploring options for expanding other social service programs. Discussions are underway regarding increased funding for the town's emergency assistance fund and the potential creation of a dedicated mobile outreach team to connect with individuals experiencing homelessness. The Social Services Coordinator will play a key role in evaluating the effectiveness of existing programs and identifying areas for improvement. The town's budget for the upcoming fiscal year, currently under review, is expected to reflect this increased focus on social welfare initiatives. This proactive investment isn't merely about addressing immediate needs; it's about building a stronger, more compassionate West Hartford for all its residents.