COVID-19 Assistance Fund Accepting Applications

July 19, 2022

The Connecticut Essential Workers COVID-19 Assistance Fund is accepting applications. It was authorized by the legislature for the purpose of easing the financial burden on essential workers who became ill and were unable to work, or died, between March 10, 2020 and July 20, 2021.

The program assists with:

  • Lost Wages: Unpaid leave and lost wages if an employee was unable to work after contracting COVID-19, or due to symptoms later diagnosed as COVID-19. 
  • Out-of-Pocket Medical Expenses: For medical services related to contracting COVID-19 that were not covered by insurance.
  • Burial Expenses: Burial/funeral expenses of $3,000 for an eligible essential worker who died from COVID-19.
Families can also apply for any combination of the three benefits on behalf of a qualified essential worker who died after contracting COVID-19. The program can distribute up to $34 million on a first-come, first-served basis through June 30, 2024, or until the fund is depleted. 

The program stands to help thousands of first responders, hospital workers and many more who put their lives on the line to help Manchester and Connecticut residents stay safe.
 
If you or someone you know is eligible and in need of assistance, please apply and share the information about the Connecticut Essential Workers COVID-19 Assistance Fund with them so they can apply, too. This legislation is the least we can do, as a state, to show our gratitude for essential work and our workforce that contributes so much!