Emergency Energy Assistance Available Next Week

August 25, 2026

Here are the sections in today's email:

  • Let's Talk About It:
    Sen. Cathy Osten
  • Emergency Energy Assistance
  • Eastern Earns
    International Recognition
  • Poetry in the Park
 

Let's Talk About it: Sen. Cathy Osten

Dennis O’Brien recently spoke with State Senator Cathy Osten, Co-Chair of the Appropriations Committee, who is completing her seventh term representing communities across Eastern Connecticut.
As your state representative, I work closely with Sen. Osten on issues affecting Windham and advocate for state investments that support our residents, schools, municipalities, and local organizations. The Appropriations Committee plays a critical role in ensuring state funding is directed toward programs that improve people’s lives and strengthen our communities.

Sen. Osten discussed the state’s investment in the Eastern CT Manufacturing Pipeline Initiative, which provides free, short-term training and employment opportunities for people looking to enter the manufacturing industry. With significant federal investment in Electric Boat to expand submarine production, Connecticut needs a skilled workforce to meet growing demand. Programs like this are helping connect residents with the training and opportunities they need to succeed while strengthening our state’s manufacturing industry.

Sen. Osten also reflected on her career in the U.S. Army, her experience working in Connecticut’s correctional system, and her years of service in the legislature.

Click on the video below to listen to the full conversation.
Sen. Osten highlights the Eastern CT Manufacturing Pipeline.
 

Emergency Energy Assistance

Help could be on the way for those struggling to pay for electric, gas, and fuel costs. Generation Power CT announced its application cycles for the Emergency Energy Assistance Program, and eligible households can apply as soon as next week. The program accepts applications on the following dates:

  • Cycle #1: September 1 - 15, 2026
  • Cycle #2: December 1 - 15, 2026
  • Cycle #3: March 1 - 15, 2027

Generation Power CT offers up to $500 in utility assistance grants to households that meet established program guidelines. Households are eligible for one utility assistance grant every 12 months. 
 
CLICK HERE to learn more about eligibility requirements and application materials.
 

Eastern Earns International Recognition
I’m proud to highlight an exciting achievement at Eastern Connecticut State University. The school’s behavior analysis concentration in the psychology program has earned accreditation from the Association for Behavior Analysis International, making it one of only eight accredited bachelor’s programs of its kind in the world—and the only one in New England.

Eastern’s program was also the first in Connecticut approved by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board, providing students with a strong foundation for careers and advanced study in behavior analysis. Graduates can continue to earn master’s degrees in the field, preparing them to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and families.

This international recognition is a tremendous accomplishment for Eastern and another example of the high-quality educational opportunities available right here in Eastern Connecticut.
 

Poetry in the Park

Poetry in the Park returns on Thursday for another evening of poetry, readings, and open mic. Wayne Karlin will be in town and may read excerpts from his new chapbook of poems, one of his nine novels, a collection of his short stories, or other literature. His work generally analyzes the aftermath and trauma of war.
📅 Thursday
🕡 6:30 p.m.
📍 Poet's Corner, 
     Julia De Burgos Park,
     Willimantic

If there is inclement weather, the event will be held at Windham Senior Center.
Click here for more information