FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
New “Voices of Loudoun Women” Report Reveals Shifting Needs Across Loudoun
Connection, mental health access and affordability remain key concerns for local women
Loudoun County, VA. – August 31, 2026 – The Loudoun Coalition on Women and Girls (LCWAG) has released its 2026 “Voices of Loudoun Women” community assessment, highlighting changing needs and persistent challenges facing women across Loudoun County.
For the fourth consecutive year, roughly half of respondents reported facing at least one major life challenge. For the first time in the survey’s five-year history, community and social connection emerged as the top household need, while access to mental health care, workforce support and physical health care remain significant concerns.
“Our latest report highlights what residents need to thrive, including affordable and accessible services, language support, clear pathways to help and stronger community connections,” said Natasha Magrath, LCWAG Board Chair. “We hear from Loudoun women year after year, and their voices continue to shape where we invest our time and our programs.”
Among the report’s findings:
- Connection matters. 42% identified community and social connections as an important household resource.
- Mental health access remains difficult. 44% needed mental health care in the past year, with insurance coverage and provider availability among the leading barriers.
- Affordability cuts across issues. Cost continues to affect access to childcare, mental health care and other essential support.
- Resource awareness varies widely. 52% know where to seek domestic violence support, compared with just 14.7% who know where to find human trafficking resources.
“The numbers tell us that connection and access are two of the biggest opportunities for improving life for Loudoun women,” said Ferri Riar, LCWAG Research & Impact Hub Committee Chair and report co-author. “The findings point clearly to where our community can focus resources, partnerships and solutions.”
LCWAG will use the findings to help guide its programs, partnerships and advocacy, including efforts to expand access to information, strengthen community connections and support women’s economic and professional growth.
Read the full 2026 “Voices of Loudoun Women” report and explore additional findings at Reports and Findings – LCWAG.
About LCWAG
The Loudoun Coalition on Women and Girls (LCWAG) educates, empowers and collaborates to advance Loudoun’s women and girls. LCWAG’s vision is a community where every woman and girl thrives. LCWAG is a nonpartisan, nonpolitical 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization funded through grants and private donations.
Media Contact:
Lisa McGrail, Executive Director
Loudoun Coalition on Women and Girls
lmcgrail@lcwag.org
