Since its inception almost 140 years ago, the YWCA of the Hartford Region has maintained a strong community presence through consistent social action and advocacy that improves the lives of women and children.

Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, YWCA USA was at the forefront of America's most significant movements, including the institution of workers' rights, establishment of childcare, and desegregation. We carry on this tradition of action and advocacy at a local level, offering programs and services that address Greater Hartford's social and economic issues.

• Our affordable and accessible childcare programs enable parents to work and remain financially independent while their children engage in activities that contribute to healthy development and academic success.
   
• Soromundi Commons provides emergency shelter and transitional and permanent housing, along with a continuum of care on-site to help residents move toward self-sufficiency and break the cycle of homelessness.
   
• Economic advancement for women -- a variety of forms of sex discrimination still exist in today's workplace, including the wage gap, discrimination in hiring, promotion and pay, sexual harassment, occupational segregation and bias against mothers. The YWCA advocates for equal rights for women through education and building public awareness.
   

Keep reading to find out more about issues that are impacting women, children and people of color and how you can make a difference.