Legislative Update December 6

December 6, 2023


 
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Dear Friends and Neighbors,
As we transition into the holiday season, let's carry forward the spirit of gratitude and extend it to those around us. It is the time of year when bonfires meet hot cocoa, and where we create meaningful and timeless memories with the ones we love. 

It is a beautiful and busy season, and this year I encourage each of you to take some time for self-care during the holidays. Whether it's spending quality time with loved ones, enjoying nature's beauty, or engaging in activities that bring you joy, remember to prioritize your well-being. By nurturing ourselves, we become better equipped to support others.

As always, I write this message with our community foremost in my mind, and further in this email, you will find more in-depth information on events I have attended, upcoming community events, and resources I hope will be useful to you and your family.
 
Thanksgiving Giveaway
This Thanksgiving, I had the privilege of participating in a special event that brought joy and nourishment to those in need within our community. Jerkyz, a beloved Jamaican restaurant in Stamford, organized a Thanksgiving Giveaway where they generously provided meals to individuals, families, shelters, and nonprofit organizations for people who may have otherwise gone without a warm holiday meal. It was an incredible display of compassion and community spirit.

Jerkyz prepared and distributed a substantial number of delicious Thanksgiving meals. The gratitude and smiles on the faces of those who received this food were truly heartwarming. It was a reminder of the power we hold as a community to uplift and support one another during challenging times. 

I want to express my deepest appreciation to Jerkyz for their unwavering commitment to giving back to our community. Their dedication to making a positive impact is truly inspiring, and I'm grateful for their work in this meaningful endeavor. 

I also want to extend my heartfelt thanks to all the volunteers who selflessly dedicated their time and energy to make this event possible. Your kindness and generosity have made a significant difference in the lives of our neighbors, reminding us all of the importance of unity and compassion.

 
Heights and Lights 
I hope you'll join me in attending Heights & Lights in Stamford Downtown on Sunday, December 10th at 6:00 PM! From 22 stories above, witness Santa Claus, Rudolph, the Grinch, and their merry crew as they fearlessly descend from the top of Landmark Square, one of Stamford's tallest buildings. This will be followed by a fireworks display-- ensuring fun for all who attend! 
Following their rappel, Santa and his friends will lead a festive march up Bedford Street to Latham Park. There, you can enjoy enchanting holiday music and join in the excitement as Stamford's Holiday Tree is illuminated. It's a magical event that promises to kick-start your holiday spirit! 
 
Parent Leader Training Institute
The Stamford Parent Leader Training Institute (PLTI) Class of 2024 is now accepting applications. For any parents who want to work with trained leaders in our community, please consider joining this intensive 20-week program that runs from January - June. 
To learn more, please scan the QR code above or click here. If you have any questions, please contact Regan Allan via email or at (203) 965-7733. 
 
Microtransit Pilot Program
Stamford is participating in the launch of an exciting pilot program aimed at modernizing transportation and enhancing the overall quality of life for its residents. The innovative Microstransit Program is a convenient and accessible mode of transportation that can be requested and scheduled through a smartphone app or phone number.
The Microtransit Pilot Program will serve a five-mile boundary within Stamford and will begin within the next six months. With a duration of two years, the program also holds the potential for an additional two one-year extensions, depending on its performance and ridership. You can read more about the Microtransit Pilot Program by clicking here.
 
SNAP Eligibility Change Benefits CT Residents
In October 2022, Governor Lamont increased the income eligibility limits for Connecticut's Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), resulting in benefits for nearly 10,000 individuals in 4,980 households.

The revised eligibility benefit levels now allow residents to qualify for SNAP benefits if their monthly gross income is at or below 200% of the federal poverty level. This change aims to provide a greater opportunity for more families to access and benefit from the program. 

As a reminder,  SNAP enrollees are also automatically eligible for other federally-funded services, such as the National School Lunch and Breakfast Program, Head Start, and the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program.

I encourage you to take a look at whether you can benefit from SNAP under these new revisions. Please click here to learn more.  

 
ArrayRx Update
ArrayRx was part of PA 23-171, otherwise known as "An Act Protecting Patients and Prohibiting Unnecessary Health Care Costs," which I strongly supported during the 2023 legislative session. Today, I'm pleased to share that since registration for the program opened up about two months ago, more than 12,000 Connecticut residents have enrolled in this prescription drug discount program. 

To sign up, simply enter your name, email address, birthday, home address, and zip code on the ArrayRx website. After registering, you will be emailed a digital discount card.  

The Office of the State Comptroller released its full ArrayRx enrollment list by city/town. Click here to see how many people in Stamford have already signed up. 

 
Resources for Stamford
I'm pleased to share that Stamford will receive $250,000 in funding to design and construct playscapes for improved safety and accessibility at the Children's Learning Centers of Fairfield County, the Mill River Collaborative, and the Boys and Girls Club of Stamford
This funding will greatly enhance the safety and accessibility of these important community spaces, providing children with inclusive and engaging play areas. I'm proud to support initiatives that prioritize the well-being and development of our youth, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact these playscapes will have on our community. 
 
Right to Counsel Program
Public Act 21-34 established a Right to Counsel Program (RTC) for certain tenants living in residential properties. Individuals who are income-eligible may be able to have a free lawyer represent them if they are facing eviction or loss of their housing subsidy.

For those experiencing or potentially facing eviction, this resource provides valuable information for navigating this challenging time. Additionally, you can call 1 (800) 559-1565.

 
Affordable Connectivity Program
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) subsidizes internet connectivity for qualifying households. Individuals can receive a credit of up to $30 per month to help pay for internet services.
ACP is a federal program created to ensure that households can afford the broadband internet services needed for work, school, and other activities. For more information or to check your eligibility, please click here
 
Legally Blonde The Musical
There's still time to see Legally Blonde The Musical! On Friday, December 8th and Saturday, December 9th there are performances at 7:30 PM. Additionally, on Sunday, December 10th there will be an earlier show at 3:00 PM
To get your tickets, please scan the QR code above. Additionally, you can purchase tickets by using this link
 
If you have any issues, concerns, or feedback, I would love to hear from you! Please feel free to contact me at 860-240-8585 if you ever need anything or by email at hubert.delany@cga.ct.gov

Sincerely,



Hubert Delany
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