Local System of Care

West Haven Interagency Network for Children (WHINC)

Our Local System of Care’s mission is to provide various support services for West Haven’s families, children, youths, adolescents and young adults, including those with special needs through collaboration with other municipal departments, the West Haven Board of Education and other service providers in Greater New Haven.

Programs and services offered include parent support groups, social groups for adolescents and young adults, and after-school and evening activities, such as a duckpin bowling club, a monthly summer enrichment program and special holiday events. All activities and programs are for families and children with special needs.

Visit WHINC on Facebook.

Groups

• WHINC: This collaborative, hybrid format meets the third Wednesday of each month from 11:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. in the third-floor conference room of City Hall, 355 Main St. For more information or to join the meeting, contact Diane Dietman at 203-937-3633 or dietman@westhaven-ct.gov.
• Parent and Guardian Support Group: A monthly support group for families of special needs children that meets the third Monday of each month from 6-7:45 p.m. at the Johnson Community Center, 201 Noble St. For more information, call Viola Waldo at 203-804-5326. Visit us on Facebook.
• Social Group for Adolescents and Young Adults With Special Needs: This group meets monthly and consists of 16-20 members and three chaperones. Please note: The meeting location changes monthly based on the activity offered. To become a member in the group requires an initial interview with the group facilitator. For more information, call Viola Waldo at 203-804-5326.
• Spanish Support Group for Families of Children With Special Needs: This group meets the third Tuesday of each month from 6-7:45 p.m. at the Johnson Community Center, 201 Noble St. Please note: Meetings are held virtually every other month. For more information, call Coraly Colon at 203-943-8802 or Lucia Salazar at 203-243-5810.
• Bereavement Support Group: This support group is designed for widows, widowers and partners ages 65 and younger. Meetings are held every Wednesday evening at the Johnson Community Center, 201 Noble St. We welcome individuals from all areas, and West Haven residence is not required. If you are seeking support during this challenging time, we invite you to join us and ask that you make initial contact prior to attending with Cate Saxton at 203-535-1163 or mscate@yahoo.com. Visit us on Facebook.