Millions Approved for Home Heating Assistance

February 16, 2024

Dear Neighbor,

My colleagues and I are back at the Capitol for the 2024 legislative session, and we took swift action as snow and cold temperatures returned to Connecticut. I'll break down why the House approved millions in home heating assistance to those in need.

I was proud to join the state comptroller and some members of the Stamford delegation to help folks learn how to save money on prescription drugs. Keep scrolling to get the low-down on ArrayRx. 

February is Black History Month, and you still have several opportunities to learn about our nation's history and culture. Please read below to find out where you can broaden your horizons this month at several events in Stamford.

Have a great weekend!

You will find the following sections below:

  • Millions Approved for Home Heating Assistance
  • Senior Healthcare Forum
  • Black History Month Celebration
  • Oscar Nominated Films on Big Screen
 
Millions Approved for Home Heating Assistance
The House of Representatives returned to the State Capitol this week to approve $17 million in additional cold weather heating assistance funds. Many residents and families who receive assistance through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) or Operation Fuel will have access to funds to ensure they can heat their homes through the cold weather season.

The House and Senate approved the measure unanimously, and the bill took effect immediately after the governor signed it into law on Wednesday afternoon. The Connecticut Department of Social Services and Operation Fuel will work to ensure this funding gets to those in need.

As your State Representative, it is my responsibility to stand up for my constituents. This funding ensures that none of our neighbors must choose between paying their bills or freezing.

I am committed to enhancing the safety and quality of life for all residents, and I will continue to do so throughout this legislative session. 

 
Senior Healthcare Forum

It was a pleasure to join State Comptroller Sean Scanlon and my colleagues to talk about Connecticut’s brand new prescription drug discount program! ArrayRx can help you save 80% on generic drugs, and all FDA approved prescriptions are included. 

Affordable prices on prescription drugs deliver a wide array of benefits including:

  • better access to life-saving medications
  • better individual health outcomes
  • improved public health
  • improved quality of life
 
Black History Month Celebration
February is Black History Month, and my colleagues and I are remembering a friend we lost far too soon. Representative Quentin "Q" Williams was the first Black person to be elected to represent the 100th house district in Middletown. He was a trailblazer in so many ways, and a fierce advocate for education.
 
You can learn more about Black History Month at Ferguson Library, which is hosting several events. Children will watch screenings of animated videos on Tuesday, February 20 at 12:30 P.M. A couple of them are pictured below.
Click Here For Full Slate of Black History Events at Ferguson Library

And be sure to check out a community vendor fair at UConn Stamford where you will be able to buy apparel, African accessories, handbags, jewelry, and more.

When: Saturday, February 17 from 10:00 A.M. - 3:00 P.M. 
Where: UConn Stamford Campus at 1 University Place

I encourage you to celebrate Black History Month locally and throughout Connecticut. Our state has several resources that honor the Black experience, such as the Amistad Center for Art & Culture in Hartford and the Ruby and Calvin Fletcher African American Museum in Stratford.

Click here to find more places that celebrate Black history in Connecticut.

 
Oscar Nominated Films on Big Screen
In the spirit of Black History Month, let's take a moment to remember Hollywood pioneer Hattie McDaniel. She was the first African American to win an Oscar. She was also the first Black woman to sing on radio in the United States.

Sticking with the Oscars theme, Avon Theatre is playing some of the best movies of 2023 on the big screen ahead of the Academy Awards. Below you will find the schedule! Click on the film name to buy tickets.