Alice Rosenthal, an attorney for the Center for Children’s Advocacy and coordinator of the the Medical-Legal Partnership at Yale New Haven Hospital, has compiled a list of resources focused on housing, utilities, and income, food, and general support for local families. Please utilize these resources if you are in need or reach out to the Medical-Legal Partnership at (203) 745-7980 or dial the 2-1-1 Infoline for additional assistance.
Housing: No Evictions Until July 1
Most evictions and foreclosure proceedings in CT have been placed on hold through July 1, 2020 per the Governor’s order. This means that landlords cannot start eviction proceedings until July 1, 2020. If you can, continue to pay your rent. If not, there are a few steps to take to let your landlord know that you are struggling to pay rent. CT Law Help has more information.
Utilities
No Shutoffs Until After the Crisis: Connecticut has banned all utility shutoffs, including, gas, electricity and water, during the pendency of the crisis. Families facing imminent shutoff notices or whose utilities were shut off should call the Public Utility Regulatory Authority (PURA) at 1-800-382-4586. Although during this time you are still accruing bills and should pay when you can.
Energy Assistance/Fuel Oil
The moratorium does not apply to fuel oil. However, Operation Fuel is still taking applications and may be reached at 860-243-2346 or by email at info@operationfuel.org for fuel deliveries.
If your family needs energy assistance to help with arrearages, funds are still available and the deadline to apply has been extended to June 1, 2020. Contact your local Community Action Agency for an application.
Income Support
Cash Assistance: Temporary Family Assistance limits suspended
The state temporarily suspended the 21-month lifetime limit on the receipt of Temporary Family Assistance (TFA). Families eligible and interested in applying for ongoing TFA should apply on-line at the Department of Social Services ConneCT webpage.
The CARES ACT: What does it mean and how do you get your stimulus check?
Every American who made less than $75,000 in 2019 will receive a one-time payment of $1,200, even if you did not work, did not file taxes or receive disability benefits. There is an additional $500 for every “qualifying child”. For more information please go to the IRS webpage. Get help with filing your taxes or getting your Economic Impact Payment.
Food Support
SNAP (or food stamps): DSS has suspended work requirements and certain time limits for enrollees. In addition, if the SNAP re-enrollment form was due in March, those benefits will automatically be continued through September 30, 2020; if due in April continued through October 31, 2020; and due in May continued through November 30, 2020.
WIC: offices are closed for walk-in appointments and applications. However, applications and inquiries are still being processed over the phone. Call your local WIC office.
New Haven Food Resources: the city of New Haven has a website just on food resources during COVID. Please visit the website for the most up to date information on food access.
School Meals Distribution: New Haven Public Schools are providing free food at school locations across the city Mon, Wed, Fri. You do not need to attend that school and you do not need to bring a child with you to receive the food. We encourage you to go to the closest school. For a list of schools go here: https://www.nhps.net/coronavirus
Food Pantries: A regularly updated spreadsheet about the food pantries and soup kitchens that are still serving in New Haven and those that have had to close.
Food Garage: Provides free food and delivery for those who need food during the pandemic. They serve New Haven, West Haven, East Haven, and Hamden. Fill out an online request with how often you need help and they will reach out to you about what they can provide.
General Support
Connecticut’s 2-1-1 Info-line: A free hotline that helps you find the resources you need. They are available 24/7 and in any language. Dial 211 or online here.
CT CORE: Has a mutual aid and community support network throughout CT to ensure that everyone in the community can request support during these difficult times. Fill out the form and say what your immediate needs are, such as food, housing, legal assistance, childcare, etc. They will reach out to you and connect you with the supports you need.