Collective Action CT was founded in February 2025 by six community organizers from across Connecticut to meet urgent needs left unmet by traditional systems strained by budget cuts and limited resources. Each founding member serves as a county lead, coordinating mutual aid efforts such as collecting and distributing essential items including non-perishable food, infant care products, and personal care supplies to community members in need. Rooted in the values of collective care and community solidarity, Collective Action CT models its work after historic mutual aid initiatives like the Black Panther Party’s Free Breakfast Program working to build a sustainable, people-powered network designed to fill critical gaps and strengthen communities across the state. The mission of Collective Action CT is to meet the immediate needs of our communities through mutual aid, grounded in care, compassion, and solidarity. Collective Action CT serves individuals and families across Connecticut who are experiencing economic hardship or facing barriers to accessing basic needs. Many community members supported by the organization are of low to moderate income, and a significant portion are working families struggling with food insecurity and housing instability. Additional populations served include immigrants and residents with limited mobility or transportation options. Collective Action CT’s planning process is guided by direct community input.