Mary Fortier

Last week, we voted to extend the state’s Emergency Response Fund, a critical safeguard that helps shield Connecticut from federal funding cuts and protects essential health and human services relied upon by communities across our state. At a time of ongoing chaos and uncertainty at the federal level, extending this fund ensures Connecticut is prepared to act swiftly and responsibly. The Emergency Response Fund will remain available through the end of the next fiscal year, giving the state the flexibility to respond quickly to additional federal funding reductions and to continue supporting the services that families, seniors, and vulnerable residents depend on.

Governor Ned Lamont announced that the Connecticut Student Loan Reimbursement Program has opened a new grant round and is now accepting applications for student loan payments that were made during the 2025 calendar year.

Since launching its first grant round in January 2025, the program has awarded more than $2.2 million in reimbursements to borrowers statewide.

Eligible applicants can apply for reimbursement grants of up to $5,000 per year, with a maximum reimbursement of $20,000 over four years. Under the program, a new grant round launches each year, providing reimbursements for payments made during the preceding calendar year.

Eligible applicants may qualify if they:

• Are Connecticut residents and meet program residency requirements
• Made qualifying student loan payments during the 2025 calendar year
• Earned a degree from a Connecticut institution of higher education or completed a state-approved program required for professional licensure or certification
• Meet income limits of $125,000 for single filers or $175,000 for married filers
• Completed required community service or qualify for a hardship waiver in certain circumstances

Applications must be submitted online through the CT Scholars portal, where applicants need to complete an application and upload required documentation. Applications will be reviewed on a first come first serve basis through December 2026 or until funds are exhausted.

Click here for application instructions. Questions regarding the program and the application process can be directed to OHE.SLRP@ct.gov.

Black History Month is a time to rejoice, reflect, and remember that Black history is American history.  

In Connecticut, we have a rich history of Black Americans shaping our communities. I encourage you to explore the following resources to learn more about Black History in Connecticut and to attend local events taking place over the next month:

The State of Connecticut published a piece about why we celebrate Black History Month, resources to learn more about this history, and events.

The Connecticut Tourism Office detailed the various landmarks and museums you can visit to explore Black History in Connecticut, along with events throughout the month.

Black History is something to be celebrated by all Connecticut residents, and I hope you'll look through these wonderful resources.

February is Heart Awareness Month. Heart disease is often preventable, but remains the top killer in the U.S.  

Here are some simple ways to promote heart health:

• Get CPR certified
• Exercise regularly & manage your stress
• Keep Track of your cholesterol
• Know your numbers! Learn how to self-measure your own blood pressure

Last year, the legislature passed Senate Bill 1, which included language requiring insurance companies to cover the cost of coronary calcium scans.

The coronary calcium scans looks for calcium deposits in the heart’s arteries. The results can help determine the risk of heart attacks or strokes in patients, according to the Mayo Clinic.

The scan costs about $200 if you pay out of pocket, doctors don’t usually mention the scan because, up until last year, insurers didn’t cover it.

Please be reminded that a Bristol Warming Center at the First Congregational Church (31 Maple Street) is open seven days a week from 7:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. in addition to the below locations. Help spread the word so our community can remain safe and warm during harsh winter weather.

Click here for more information on the food drive and to see what foods are in high demand.

The Bristol Bazaar is home to over 75 local makers, unique gifts, creative workshops, and Yellow King Bristol.

Shop small, support local and explore thousands of handmade treasures in our one-of-a-kind indoor market space. Open 6 days a week (67 Race Street), click here for more information.