SOCIAL SERVICES PROGRAMS
CONNECTICUT ENERGY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM provides assistance to income eligible households in paying for their heating costs during the winter months. DYSS is an intake site for Cheshire residents, gathering information so that New Opportunities for Waterbury can certify residents eligible for assistance based on the income of the household.
The CHESHIRE FUEL BANK provides assistance to Cheshire residents who do not meet the financial or asset criteria of the Connecticut Energy Assistance, but who are in an emergency situation. Funds for this program are provided by donations from individuals, religious groups, and civic organizations. Due to the significant increase in the cost of home heating oil, the grant award has been increased to up to $250 per delivery.
TAX RELIEF FOR ELDERLY AND HANDICAPPED RENTERS provides 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 provides food vouchers of $30 at local grocery stores to resident households in need of perishable food items. Households are also referred to the local food pantry for non-perishable items that are collected at the annual food drive and monthly by local religious groups. Funding for this program comes from the cash donations received by the Cheshire Food Drive.
PARKS AND RECREATION FEE SCHOLARSHIP 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 provide needy families with food and gifts throughout the holiday season. From November through December donations of food, gifts, and financial gifts are accepted by the DYSS and are distributed to needy clients/families.
BIRTHDAY BOXES are 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 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 COUNSELING are provided by the Town Social Worker. Social services cases include individuals experiencing financial difficulties, seeking rental or mortgage assistance, facing notices on utilities, housing issues, legal referrals, food assistance, unemployment, and disability. In addition, in conjunction with the Cheshire Police Department, counseling 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 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 available for the following items: clothing, small appliances and furniture. During the month of December, volunteers assist with the kettle collection.
FEDERAL EARNED INCOME TAX CREDIT is a refundable federal tax credit for working individuals and families who have earned income under $38,348 (2006 return). It reduces the amount of tax owed by such people, and it may result in them receiving a tax refund. For more information go to: http://www.irs.gov/individuals/article/0,,id=96466,00.html
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THESE PROGRAMS, INCLUDING APPLICATION INFORMATION, CALL ALJEAN MORICO, MSW, AT THE YOUTH AND SOCIAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT AT 271-6690.
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