Resources for Americans in Israel & Millions in Funding For Stamford

October 11, 2023


The world is in shock after the senseless tragedy in Israel. Please share the resources below to help any family or friends who are actively in Israel and trying to leave safely.

Back at home, Stamford is receiving millions of dollars in state funding to improve our city. From transportation upgrades to renovations at Avon Theatre, which I requested, Stamford needs these resources to support our growing population.

Below you will find the following sections in this email:

    • Resources for Americans in Israel
    • Millions in State Bonding Funds for Stamford
    • State's New Health & Human Services Portal
    • CT's Transportation Bonds Upgrade
    • Wrong-Way Driving Technology Installation
    • Statewide Gun Buyback Event
     
    Resources for Americans in Israel
    The events that have taken place in Israel are simply heartbreaking. Thousands of innocent people, including Americans, have lost their lives in the senseless violence. Many others have been hurt or lost family and friends. Thousands of Americans are in Isreal right now, and many are seeking to safely leave the country. 

    Please share the resources below with anyone who may be in the region.

    The Department of State has an around-the-clock coordinating group communicating with U.S. citizens and providing them assistance through phone calls and an online form. U.S. citizens seeking to be in touch with the U.S. Embassy in Israel can call 1-833-890-9595 or 1-606-641-0131.

    For the latest updates from the Department of State, please monitor the messages to U.S. citizens from the U.S. Embassy in Israel here.

    The State Department has asked that any U.S. citizens in Israel enroll their contact information in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). You can complete enrollment online here. Enrolling in STEP allows you receive important information about safety conditions and assists the Embassy, family, and friends in contacting you during an emergency. 

    The State Department is continuously updating their international travel advisory for Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza. Those updates can be found on their website here.

     
    Millions in State Bonding Funds for Stamford
    The State Bond Commission approved funding for several key projects in Stamford on Friday, October 6. Please look below for a full list:
     
    State's New Health & Human Services Portal

    I am so excited to announce Health.CT.gov, a new website serving as a hub for all of your health and wellness services. You'll find all sorts of great, local resources like: 

    • Programs specifically tailored for your community
    • Insurance and financial resources
    • Easy directions to apply for the help you need
    • Health services for you and your loved ones
    • Healthy living tools

    Click the image below to check out the new website!
    You can also check your eligibility for assistance with health insurance, utilities, food, and other critical health needs. Spread the word and check it out today!
     
    CT's Transportation Bonds Upgraded

    Kroll Bond Rating Agency has upgraded the credit rating of Connecticut’s transportation bonds from AA+ to AAA, the highest credit rating possible.

    The upgrade is for Connecticut's Special Tax Obligation (STO), Transportation Infrastructure Purpose Bonds, which are issued for the state's portion of transportation infrastructure improvements, including construction and maintenance of highways, roads, bridges, mass transit projects, waterway access, and more.
    Kroll credited the upgrade in part to the state’s strong legal framework that protects bondholders by committing revenues to cover debt service on STO bonds. Kroll also upgraded the state’s General Obligation credit rating to AA+ earlier this year. Since 2021, Moody’s, Fitch, Kroll (twice), and S&P (twice) have upgraded Connecticut’s GO credit rating.
     
    Wrong-Way Driving Technology Installation
    The Department of Transportation continues to install wrong-way driving detection systems as part of a test program around Connecticut. These installations come after a new state law went into effect on October 1 that would install these systems on at least 120 highway exit ramps that are considered high-risk.
    Click Here For More Information
     
    Statewide Gun Buyback Event

    On Saturday, October 28, several state police departments around the state will participate in the third annual Connecticut Statewide Gun Buyback and Gun Safe Giveaway Day, including Stamford PD.

    The event will be held from 10:00 A.M. - 2:00 P.M. at the Stamford Police Department on 725 Bedford Street. Please look at the flier below for more information.