Kevin Brown

Earlier this week I joined a number of my legislative colleagues, Congressman John Larson, Comptroller Sean Scanlon and other stakeholders at Manchester Memorial Hospital to celebrate Hartford HealthCare’s new beginning for our local hospitals, including the freshly minted Rockville Campus. With HHC’s investment, there are many positive changes to come for our community!

Access Health CT has extended the final deadline to enroll in a health or dental plan for 2026 to Saturday, January 31. Customers who enroll or renew now will have coverage starting February 1.
 
Recent federal changes mean the amount of financial help available and who is eligible has changed. However, Connecticut has stepped up which means that financial assistance is still available.
 
Some customers might qualify for new state subsidies or other low- or no-cost coverage options, including the Covered CT Program or HUSKY Health, Connecticut’s Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).
 
Customers can visit AccessHealthCT.com and click the “Get Help” button on the homepage to find the option that works best for them, including scheduling an appointment, finding a nearby Navigator site or attending an enrollment fair. Help is available in over 100 languages.

Free help to sign up is available online, in person and over the phone.

The Generation Power CT (GPCT) Emergency Energy Assistance Program is accepting applications through Saturday, January 10. This program provides a one-time grant of up to $500 toward a future fuel delivery or toward a past-due utility bill.
 
Increasing energy costs are a challenge for many in the state, but through this program, GPCT has helped provide families across Connecticut with secure access to heat, power, and water.
 
All GPCT energy programs are available to income-eligible households making up to 75% SMI gross household income. For the best chance of approval, and to make full use of this once-per-12-months grant, GPCT strongly encourages households to apply for assistance when you are most in need. After the January application period, GPCT has one remaining Energy Assistance Application Cycle this season from March 2-10.

Click here to learn more about eligibility requirements and application materials.

The state is reminding those with SNAP benefits that new, federal legislation has changed eligibility standards. The Connecticut Department of Social Services asks that SNAP recipients answer a few questions to find out if they're affected. 

Click here to take the evaluation.

January is Radon Action Month! Radon is a colorless, odorless gas that you can’t see, smell, or taste. Over time, it can build up in your home and increase the risk of serious health problems, including lung cancer.

Click here to learn more about radon, how it can affect your health, and how you can take action.

On Sunday, January 11, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., the 4-H Camp will host an Open House.

Attendees are invited to meet the staff, tour the facilities, and learn more about camp programs. Early bird discounts are available for those who register for summer camp by January 31.

Please e-mail your entries to parksandrec@vernon-ct.gov and include the name of sculptor, contact information, and a clear picture of your sculpture.

Sculptures can be classic snowmen or other imaginative creatures/creations.  One entry per sculptor. All entries must be submitted via e-mail by February 28.

Prizes for winners will be awarded in early March.