SOCIAL SERVICES

The Town of Cheshire Human Services Department offers a variety of social service and assistance programs for our residents or all ages. Please review our programs listed below to see you if you or someone you know is eligible for assistance.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THESE PROGRAMS, INCLUDING APPLICATION INFORMATION, CALL KRISTEN SCHECHTER AT THE HUMAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT AT 203-271-6690.

CONNECTICUT ENERGY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

This program provides assistance to income eligible households in paying for their heating costs during the winter months. The Cheshire Youth and Social Services Department is an intake site for Cheshire residents. Households are determined eligible based on state income and asset guidelines. Applications are forwarded to New Opportunities for Waterbury for processing. State guidelines can be found on the Connecticut Department of Social Services website or by calling Infoline at 211.

CHESHIRE FUEL BANK

This program provides assistance to Cheshire residents who are in an emergency situation. Funds for this program are provided by generous donations from individuals, religious groups, and civic organizations.

TAX RELIEF FOR ELDERLY AND HANDICAPPED RENTERS

This program offers a state subsidy to renters over the age of 65 or who are receiving Social Security Disability that meet guidelines based on their income and rent/utility expenses. Checks are sent by the Connecticut Office of Policy and Management to these households to offset any increase in rent due to changes in property taxes that landlords pass on to the renters.

The CHESHIRE FOOD VOUCHER PROGRAM

This program provides food vouchers of $40 to certain local grocery stores to eligible resident households in need of perishable food items. Households can also be referred to the Cheshire Community Food Pantry. Funding for the Food Voucher program comes from the Cheshire Food Drive.

PARKS AND RECREATION FEE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

This cross-department program provides a reduction in the fees charged for income eligible families with children so that they can participate in the recreational and cultural programs offered throughout the year. Screening of household income determines the eligibility for this program. Fee reduction is granted by the Park and Recreation Department based on this certification.

ADOPT-A-FAMILY PROGRAMS

This seasonal program provides needy families with children under the age of 16 with food and gifts throughout the holiday season. From November through December donations of food, gifts, and financial gifts are accepted by the Youth and Social Services Department and are distributed to needy families.

BIRTHDAY BOXES

This program is available to parents experiencing financial difficulties. Boxes for their children provide everything needed for a birthday party such as cake mix, frosting, cups, plates, favors, candy, etc.

BACK-TO-SCHOOL PROGRAM

This program is available to any family experiencing financial difficulty. School supplies, backpacks and shoe vouchers are available. A limited supply of these items is available in August and September each year.

SOCIAL WORK & CRISIS INTERVENTION/SUPPORT

These services are provided by the Town Social Worker. Social services cases include individuals experiencing financial difficulties, seeking rental or mortgage assistance, facing shutoff notices on utilities, housing issues, legal referrals, food assistance, unemployment, and disability. In addition, in conjunction with the Cheshire Police Department, intervention is provided for individuals experiencing a variety of crises including domestic violence, family disputes, juvenile disputes, grief counseling, divorce, and custody issues.

SALVATION ARMY - CHESHIRE UNIT

The Salvation Army provides crisis assistance to needy residents. The Social Worker will meet with the client, make an assessment and provide assistance depending upon their needs. Vouchers to the Salvation Army Thrift Store are also available. During the month of December, volunteers assist with the kettle collection.

FEDERAL EARNED INCOME TAX CREDIT

This is a refundable federal tax credit for working individuals and families who have earned income of under $13,460 - $48,362 (2010 return). It reduces the amount of tax owed, and it may result in a tax refund. For more detailed information click here.

LOCAL TAX RELIEF

The Town of Cheshire offers a variety of Local Elderly Tax Relief Programs for eligible residents.