Updates for the End of August

August 29, 2024

Several days ago, parts of Connecticut received three months of rain in a few hours. Two people died, and homes, farms, and businesses were devastated. In addition to severe storms, we’ve had record heat.

These events are a harbinger of things to come. Climate change is here and it is hurting us—heat waves, torrential rain, closed beaches, flooded homes, roads washed away, the millions it costs to repair damage, not to mention soaring electricity prices as we try to manage our own comfort during the heat waves. Homes are becoming increasingly uninsurable, and, worst of all, there are lost lives.

In my video I talk about some bills that we failed to pass that would have begun to take decisive action on climate change. 

On the bright side, Connecticut has been the recipient of two grants to invest in renewable energy projects, and to reduce greenhouse gas emissions:

  • The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) selected the Power Up New England proposal submitted by Connecticut and its neighboring New England states to receive an award of up to $389 million through the second round of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s competitive Grid Innovation Program(GIP). This will fund investments in regional electric infrastructure, and deployment of a battery energy storage system to enhance grid resilience in Connecticut and neighboring states. 
  • The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) awarded Connecticut and neighboring states a $450 million grant through the Climate Pollution Reduction Grant program to accelerate adoption of affordable electric heat pumps throughout the region.

These investments will provide Connecticut with greater access to offshore wind, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, increased reliability and energy savings, as well as health benefits. Most importantly, they are a step forward in alleviating the devastating effects the warming climate has had on our state. 

As always, I am here to listen and help. If you have questions or ever need any help, please don't hesitate to reach out by phone, 860-240-8585 or 203-564-9516, or email Rachel.Khanna@cga.ct.gov.

You can also follow me on Facebook and Instagram to get information on happenings in Greenwich and Stamford, and other useful information!

Thanks, 


Rachel Khanna
State Representative

It's Time to Pass Climate Legislation 
 
 
Commemorating the Marquis de Lafayette's Visit to Greenwich 

I was happy, especially with my French roots, to celebrate a remarkable milestone in our history as well as an exceptional man. On August 19, we celebrated the 200th anniversary of the Marquis de Lafayette's visit to Greenwich. The Marquis was not only an important figure during our founding, but embodied the ideals of liberty, equality, and fraternity. These are beliefs and values that we share with France, and it’s a legacy that endures to this day. 

General Lafayette deeply believed in the principles of freedom and justice. His contributions on the battlefield were invaluable, but it was his continuing and unwavering commitment to the cause of liberty that truly set him apart.

 
Stamford Public Schools Convention

It's go time! What a thrill to attend Stamford Public Schools' Convocation at Stillmeadow School. I am so grateful to all the teachers, administrators and staff who dedicate their lives to setting our children on a path to lifelong learning and success! 

 
WBDC Grant Opportunities for Small Businesses

The Women's Business Development Council (WBDC) offers grants to Connecticut-based small businesses. Applications are now open for two of WBDC's grant programs.

Ignite Grants are designed to help women-owned businesses grow! Grants between $2,500 and $10,000 will be awarded for clearly defined projects that will have a measurable impact on the business, its growth and profitability. Applications will be accepted through September 24. Eligibility information and the application, as well as dates and registration for upcoming information sessions, can be found here.

WBDC Child Care Business Opportunity Fund Grants are designed to help licensed and aspiring child care businesses. These grants of up to $25,000 are offered in partnership with the Connecticut Office of Early Childhood and are available to child care programs at different stages of business, from start-ups to those ready to expand. Applications for Start-Up and Expansion Grants will be accepted through September 9. Other grant applications are accepted on a rolling basis. More information on the types of grants available, as well as dates and registration for upcoming information sessions, can be found here.

 
 
Family Centers Early Care & Education
Family Centers provides full-day, full-year early care & education services for families living in or working near Greenwich. Space is available NOW in our 3- and 4-year-old preschool classrooms. We are accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and licensed by the Connecticut Office of Early Childhood. Head Start free preschool or scholarship is available for qualifying families. Apply online at www.familycenters.org or contact Catherine Vargas at 203-869-4848. Teaching positions are also available; apply through our website.
 
Next Chapter Book Club
 
Filling in the Blanks Holiday Backpack Drive
 
Justice on the Big Screen
 
Valley Jam
 
Miles for a Mission
 
Walk the Walk & 5K Run Against Domestic Violence
 
Walk/Run for Abilis
19th Annual Walk/Run for Abilis
 
Sunday, October 13, 2024
 
Greenwich Point Park

(Tod’s Point) Clambake Area


 
Old Greenwich, CT
Click Here to Register
 
Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange
 
World Affairs Council of Connecticut Internships 
For college students wanting to start their career in global affairs - apply now to become a CTWAC intern for Fall 2024.

Click these links below to apply for respective internships: