Child Nutrition Bill and Pedestrian Safety Upgrades

March 11, 2024


Expanding childhood nutrition programs is a priority this legislative session. As a father, I understand the challenges of making sure our youth eat healthy meals. Please look below to see how our proposal would support infants, older children, and their mothers.

The state is investing in new pedestrian facilities all over the state. Keep scrolling to see where you can expect to see those upgrades. 

Operation Fuel received more funding and is now extending its winter program season. Keep reading to find out how much longer folks can apply for emergency energy and water assistance.

Here are the sections in today's email:

  • Top Priority: Childhood Nutrition Programs
  • Pedestrian Facility Upgrades On the Way
  • Operation Fuel Extends Winter Program Season
 
Top Priority: Childhood Nutrition Programs
I am committed to promoting the health and well-being of our community’s families and children. In response to the vital need for improved childhood nutrition, we are working on crafting comprehensive legislation that ensures mothers and children who are eligible for federal benefits are enrolled in these programs with ease and confidence.
 
WIC (Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, Children) enrollment in Connecticut is among the lowest in the country at 46%. Not maximizing participation in this program is resulting in worse outcomes for the health and nutrition of young children.  
Child nutrition is important for many reasons including:
  • Strengthening the child's immune system
  • Providing essential vitamins and minerals
  • Enhancing brain development
  • Encouraging physical growth
  • Setting the stage for healthy eating habits for a lifetime

Healthy nutrition is also tied to preventing chronic disease, improving mental health, and helping build strong bones and teeth. 

As this priority bill moves through the legislative process, I urge you to show your support as we move forward. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the health and well-being of our youngest community members.
 
Pedestrian Facility Upgrades On the Way
You can expect to see crews upgrading pedestrian facilities in New Canaan. The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) will start replacing old side street green pedestrian phasing and facilities with new ones.

The work will take place on:
  • Route 153 at Silvermine Road and East Avenue
  • Route 106 at Jelliff Mill Road
Route 153 (New Norwalk Road) at Silvermine Road and East Avenue
Crews will install:
  • new pedestals
  • accessible pedestrian signal pushbuttons
  • countdown pedestrian indications
  • “turning vehicles yield to pedestrian” sheet aluminum signs
  • leading pedestrian intervals where feasible
Route 106 (Old Stamford Road) at Jelliff Mill Road
There will be road closures, but they will vary depending on each site. No lane closures will take place Monday through Friday between 6:00 A.M. - 9:00 A.M. and 3:00 P.M. - 6:00 P.M. 

The CTDOT expects to finish the project by October 13, 2024.
 
Operation Fuel Extends Winter Program Season
Operation Fuel is extending its 2024 winter program season and accepting application until March 15 thanks to more funding. The organization offers emergency energy and water assistance in Connecticut. Operation Fuel’s grants, which go up to $500, are available for Connecticut residents who earn up to 75% State Median Income.
To apply for delivered fuel assistance, such as oil, propane, and pellets, you must provide:
  • Proof of income for the past four weeks and for every adult in the household
  • Clients with a current Connecticut Energy Assistance Program award letter may submit this as proof of income for their household
  • Forms to verify zero income, self-employment, and friends and family support are available at www.operationfuel.org/gethelp 
  • The name of your preferred delivered fuel vendor (Operation Fuel has a list of in-network vendors)

To apply for utility assistance, such as gas and electric, you must provide:

  • Proof of income for the past four weeks and for every adult in the household. Clients with a current Connecticut Energy Assistance Program award letter may submit this as proof of income for their household 
  • Your utility account information and most recent, past due bill  

If you received an award last year are eligible to apply again before March 15. Operation Fuel does not take applications in person or over the phone. To apply online or through a partner agency, please visit www.operationfuel.org/gethelp.