ADVOCAP Releases 2025 Community Needs Assessment Report

ADVOCAP has released their 2025 Community Needs Assessment Report, a comprehensive study that identifies the most pressing challenges facing residents of Fond du Lac, Green Lake, and Winnebago Counties. Conducted every three years, the assessment gathers input from residents living with low incomes, community partners, and ADVOCAP staff to inform programs, guide partnerships, and shape long-term community impact. 

The survey results reflect a daily struggle: many local residents are consistently worried about housing, food, and their physical and mental health. Respondents reported experiencing high rates of anxiety and depression, often going without needed health services so they can afford other basic necessities. Financial pressures — including rising rent, food prices, and vehicle costs — were cited as major sources of stress. 

“This assessment gives us an honest look at what families — our friends, neighbors, coworkers — in our region are facing,” said Tanya Marcoe, Executive Director of ADVOCAP. “The data and stories shared by participants help focus our work where it matters most — removing barriers, improving access to supports, and partnering with others to create real pathways to stability and self-sufficiency.” 

Key Findings 

Top identified needs from survey respondents include: 

• Housing Instability (68%): especially help paying utilities (50%), rent (25%), and home repairs/weatherization (25%) 
• Transportation (65%): help with car repairs (44%) and fuel costs (44%) 
• Basic Needs (63%): support with benefits applications (30%), financial coaching, and credit repair (22%) 
• Food Insecurity (59%): requests for monthly food boxes/home delivery (43%) and access to fresh produce (21%) 
• Access to Services (58%): desire for a single, central access point (53%) and clearer information (45%) 
• Health & Wellness (57%): need for affordable dental (63%), vision (42%), and mental health care (39%) 
• Childcare (61% among those using childcare): requests for lower costs (58%) and more flexible hours (47%) 

Opportunities for Action 

The report highlights opportunities to strengthen local collaboration, improve access, and address systemic barriers: 

• Strengthen partnerships to expand housing, childcare, and transportation solutions 
• Simplify and centralize access to services and build community trust 
• Expand early interventions such as financial coaching and mental health support 
• Advocate for affordable housing, food, and transportation 
• Engage community members with lived experience to shape solutions 

“The data we’re seeing and the stories we’re hearing are clear. People are resilient, but they need systems and programs that truly work for them,” Marcoe said. “By working together, we can reduce barriers and help families build stronger, more stable lives.” 

The 2025 Community Needs Assessment Report is available now on the ADVOCAP website.