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Action News is the official newsletter of CAASTLC. Join now and never miss an update on the programs, resources, and opportunities that empower individuals and strengthen families across St. Louis County. Be among the first to know how CAASTLC is making a difference and how you can be a part of the action!
COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT
The Community Needs Assessment (CNA) is a comprehensive study conducted every three years. It allows CAASTLC to map out the real-time challenges and resources across our service area. By gathering direct feedback from residents and analyzing local economic data, the assessment identifies critical service gaps in areas like housing, employment, and education. This ensures our programs remain data-driven and effectively targeted to the most urgent needs of our community.
Our Goal: To ensure that every dollar and program we deploy is solving the actual problems our neighbors face today.
Data tells part of the story, but the community tells the rest. We are currently gathering two types of vital information:
- The 2026 CNA Survey: A brief digital survey that identifies gaps in housing, employment, and health.
- Focus Groups: Facilitated conversations held in mid-May to dive deeper into the “why” behind the data
As a valued community partner, your connection to the people we serve is our most important bridge. Help us by:
- Complete the Survey
- Share the Survey: Help us get the survey link into the hands of your clients, patrons, or other community members.
- Focus Group Recruitment: Identify individuals who might be willing to share their experiences in a small group setting.
- Expand to Business & Nonprofit Connections: Introduce us to local businesses or religious organizations that care about
community stability.
Click here for the Focus Group Form
The last CNA work began December 2022. The final assessment was approved August 30, 2023 and released on August 31, 2023.
CAASTLC conducted the CNA in conjunction with Community Services Block Grant’s (CSBG) requirements, and as a means for
developing CAASTLC’s 2025-2027 strategic plan. The CNA identified the primary needs of low-income individuals and families in St.
Louis County, as voiced by CAASTLC Board of Directors, Advisory Council members, staff, customers, community members and
community partners. To see the full version of the assessment see the attached PDF: “Community Needs Assessment”
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, then help is available. You can call 911 or visit your nearest emergency room. Another option is the new 3-digit 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline created The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). Please call or text 988 or chat live at 988lifeline.org.
United Way of Greater St. Louis is a funding source of Community Action Agency of St. Louis County, Inc
Learn more about our GuideStar Seal of Transparency at Candid.
