Robin Comey

Coffee with Comey and Legislative Updates

*|MC_PREVIEW_TEXT|*

View this email in your browser Dear Neighbor, As your state representative, I wanted to take a moment to provide you with some updates. In this email you'll find information regarding the following: Severe Cold Weather Protocol and Energy Assistance Coffee with Comey Greater New Haven Chamber of Commerce's Regional Legislative Forum Breakfast Meeting with BHcare's Options Program Honoring Martin Luther King Jr. A Conversation about Black History Branford Land Trust Event LEGISLATIVE UPDATES Severe Cold Weather Protocol It’s finally starting to feel like winter in New England and Governor Lamont has activated the severe cold weather protocol through Monday, January 22nd. Activating the protocols serves the state’s vulnerable populations by providing a system for state agencies and municipalities to coordinate with United Way 2-1-1 and Connecticut’s network of shelters. Anyone in need of shelter is urged to call 2-1-1 to get connected to these services and transportation. Operation Fuel Application Period Open For residents seeking heating assistance, Operation Fuel is currently accepting applications. There is a short window to apply for the winter/spring season and funds are limited so I encourage you not to wait. Applications will be accepted until Friday, March 1st or until the available funds run out. You can find more details and apply by clicking here. Coffee with Comey As we begin our session in a few short weeks, I want to be sure I’ve had the opportunity to hear from Branford’s residents. That is why I will be holding office hours and a Coffee with Comey event on Saturday, February 3rd at 9:30 AM. The event will take place at Four Seasons Market (875 West Main Street) on Route 1 across from the Dunkin Donuts on Branford Hill. I'd love to see you there! WHAT I'VE BEEN UP TO Greater New Haven Chamber of Commerce's Regional Legislative Forum Breakfast I was excited to visit my alma mater, Southern Connecticut State University, and participate in the Greater New Haven Chamber of Commerce’s Regional Legislative Forum Breakfast. I spoke about the importance of investing in our early childhood workforce as a means to drive our economy. I know that the audience widely recognized the need to get more people, especially women, working. It was a strong turnout this year with Governor Lamont delivering important remarks on the region’s economic progress. Meeting with BHcare Moving from talking to listening, I attended a recent meeting with the non-profit BHcare. During this meeting with the Options program, participants candidly shared their experiences and expressed their needs.  (L-R) Tony, Maryann, Kelly, Drew, Louise, State Representative Robin Comey, State Senator Christine Cohen, Damiana, and Anne Marie at the BHcare Meeting on Thursday, January 11, 2024. Two themes rose to the top this year. First, the importance of consistent staffing for their health and well-being. This falls squarely to the need for better and more competitive pay for the staff. The second theme was transportation. It is simply too difficult for many of the folks who don’t drive to get to doctor appointments, social programs, and shopping. Public transportation and rideshares are unreliable or unavailable. These forums are important and some of the most helpful feedback we receive each year.  Honoring Martin Luther King Jr. This week, the country had a chance to recognize Martin Luther King Jr. Day. For the first time since the pandemic, Branford’s MLK Heritage Foundation Breakfast was held in-person.  I was very grateful to have the opportunity to listen to Yvonne Renee Davis, who gave a strong keynote address.  Additionally, over the weekend, I attended the Branford Historical Society’s presentation titled “A Conversation about Black History” by Branford resident Jeffrey Fletcher. He led a vibrant and fascinating discussion on the struggles of African Americans in this country from 1619 to today.  At this hybrid event, Jeffrey introduced the audience to his museum, The Ruby and Calvin Fletcher African American History Museum (952 East Broadway, Stratford). He brought some items from the collection that reminded us of the sobering realities of slavery and the dehumanization of the race. I recommend heading over to see the museum for yourself! UPCOMING EVENTS We Still Live Here: A Film & Conversation I want to encourage you to attend the upcoming event, We Still Live Here: A Film & Conversation, presented by the Branford Land Trust. This will take place on Saturday, January 20th from 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM.  I hope you'll take the time to attend this event and learn more about the Wampanoag Tribes.  I hope you find this information valuable and informative.  As always, if I can be of any assistance, please don't hesitate to email me directly or call my office at (860) 240-8585. Sincerely, Robin Comey State Representative Facebook Website Email Forward to a friend | Unsubscribe from this list | Update subscription preferences