Roland Lemar

The deadline to sign up for Access Health CT coverage beginning January 1, 2026 is fast approaching. If you or someone you know needs health insurance for the upcoming year, now is the time to review your options and complete the enrollment process. Access Health CT offers a range of affordable plans, and many residents qualify for financial assistance to help lower monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs.

Please keep reading for more information on where to apply, how to compare plans, and where you can find in-person, phone, or online assistance to guide you through the enrollment process. Making sure you’re covered is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your health and financial well-being in the year ahead.

Open enrollment for Access Health CT's (AHCT) health and dental insurance is in full swing, and staff is ready to help residents understand their health care options.

If residents enroll in a plan on or before December 15, their coverage will begin January 1, 2026.

If they enroll between December 16 and January 15, 2026, their coverage will begin February 1, 2026.

Click here to compare plans, create an account, or to schedule an appointment with an enrollment specialist.

AHCT also offers free, expert assistance over the phone at 1-855-805-4325 to guide customers through the enrolling process. Help is available in more than 100 languages.

Saturday, December 13 is Wreaths across America Day. 

Take time to REMEMBER the fallen, HONOR those who served, and TEACH the next generation the value of freedom.

Click here to sponsor a wreath or to volunteer at East Lawn Cemetery.

Connect with innovators and leaders from across the region for a Tech & Innovation Mixer on Thursday, December 11 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Southern Connecticut State University School of Business (10 Wintergreen Ave.).

​Whether you’re an entrepreneur, business owner, startup founder or simply someone who’s energized by technology and bold ideas, this gathering is designed for you! 

​Networking will be before and after the program, don’t forget your business card! The program will officially begin at 6:00 p.m.

The event is free but you must click here to register.

If you're behind on your mortgage payments or looking to boost your earning potential, the Mortgage Crisis Job Training Program may be able to assist.

Click here for more information and to apply or call 1-866-683-1682.

It’s important to stay safe when using supplemental heating methods. Please review the electric portable space heater safety tips below, and please be safe.

Additional Fire Safety measures:

• Smoke Alarms: Install working smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside each bedroom, and outside sleeping areas. Test alarms monthly and replace batteries at least once a year.
• Carbon Monoxide (CO) Alarms: Required in homes with fuel-burning appliances, fireplaces, or attached garages. Install CO alarms outside sleeping areas and on every level.

Local food pantries across the state are providing essential assistance to those in need and are also seeking donations to help meet the growing demand.

Click here to find food programs and services available through 211 Connecticut. You can also call 2-1-1, or 1-800-203-1234.

Click here to find a Connecticut Foodshare food pantry or mobile food pantry.

For those neighbors who are not struggling please consider making a monetary donation or even donating your time to Connecticut Foodshare. Click here to volunteer and/or to donate.

New Haven’s New Holiday Market Winterfair 2025 has expanded to New Haven Union Station (50 Union Ave., located on the second level of the Great Hall). The holiday market is taking place Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. until December 21 and will be home to over 30 vendors, over 100 small, local, and diverse businesses.