Jason Rojas

The topics covered in this e-newsletter are as follows:

• State Update
• Community Resources
• Connecticut History
• Manchester Community Events and Information
• East Hartford Community Events and Information

Replacement of Roadway Illumination System in
East Hartford and Manchester

A replacement of roadway illumination project on the I-84 and I-384 interchange in East Hartford and Manchester will continue through January 12, 2028. 

LANE CLOSURE/DETOUR INFO

Motorists can expect lane closures on I-84 and I-384 in East Hartford and Manchester Monday through Friday between the hours of 6:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m., as well as Saturday and Sundays.

Motorists should be aware that modifications or extensions to this schedule may become necessary due to weather delays or other unforeseen conditions. Motorists are advised to maintain a safe speed when driving in this area.

The Connecticut Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) is now accepting applications for the 2026-2027 CEAP season.

CEAP is a Department of Social Services program to help residents offset their home heating costs. CEAP is an annual benefit, so you must apply each year to receive assistance. Benefit amount can range from $355-$705 for the 2026-2027 season, based on household size, income, and heating source.
 
Who is Eligible?
Your household may be eligible for CEAP if you can answer YES to the following questions:

• Are you a Connecticut resident?
• Do you meet one of the following income guidelines?
  • You receive SNAP, TANF, SSI, qualifying means-tested Veteran's benefits, or other qualifying benefits from the Department of Social Services
  • Your annual household income falls at or below the income levels in the table below (i.e. 60% of the state’s median income) 

How to apply?
You can apply online, by phone, by email, by mail, or in person at your local Community Action Agency (CAA).  First, click here to find your local CAA.

• Apply online: Submit your CEAP application through the Client Online portal.
• Apply by phone: Call your local CAA and request assistance applying for CEAP over the phone
• Apply by email: Download and complete the CEAP application. Email your complete application and required documents, to your local CAA
• Apply by mail: Download and complete the CEAP application. Mail your complete application and required documents to your local CAA
• Apply in person: Call your local CAA to schedule an in-person appointment. Remember to review the CEAP Application before your appointment and bring all of your required documents to your appointment.

Click here for the CEAP Application (English).

OR

Click here for the CEAP Application (Spanish).

The last day to apply for benefits is May 31, 2027.  Applications sent by mail must be postmarked by this date. Visit portal.ct.gov/heatinghelp/connecticut-energy-assistance-program-ceap for additional information. 

U-Pass CT Program Available for College Students at UConn & CSCU Schools

As college students head to campus – for the first time or well into their college experience – there's a transportation program that can help them get from point A to point B.

The U-Pass CT program launched in Fall 2017 and provides free public transportation to eligible students enrolled at participating UConn campuses and Connecticut State Colleges and Universities (CSCU) schools. The cost is included in student fees, so students only need their U-Pass CT and valid student ID when boarding participating services.

Fall semester passes are valid from August 1 to December 31. Spring semester passes are valid from January 1 to July 31.

Students get their U-Pass CT directly from their college/university. UConn students should contact Transportation Services at upass.uconn.edu. Students at other participating colleges and universities should contact their Bursar’s Office to obtain a pass.

Participating colleges and universities and transit systems can be found HERE.

Generation Power CT has announced its application cycles for our Emergency Energy Assistance Program, which provides assistance for electric, gas, and fuel costs, are as follows:

• Cycle #1: September 1 - 15, 2026
• Cycle #2: December 1 - 15, 2026
• Cycle #3: March 1 - 15, 2027

Generation Power CT provides up to $500 in utility assistance grants to households who meet established program guidelines. Households are eligible for one utility assistance grant per 12-month period. 

To learn more about eligibility requirements and application materials, go to: https://gpct.org/gethelp/

The Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs provides free bus passes to eligible Connecticut Veterans, helping make public transportation more accessible and affordable.
Important information:

• Transit district: Bus passes are specific to the transit district or districts the Veteran uses
• 31-day validity: Bus passes are valid for 31 days from the date of first use. Veterans should request a new pass approximately 10 days before their current pass expires
• Online application: Veterans must apply for a bus pass online. For the initial application, Veterans will need to provide a copy of their Connecticut driver’s license or non-driver identification card with the Veteran indicator to verify eligibility
• Non-transferable: Bus passes are for the eligible Veteran’s use only and cannot be transferred to another person. Veterans must present their Connecticut driver’s license or non-driver identification card with the Veteran indicator when using the pass

Click here for more information and to access the online application.
Questions about the program can be directed to DVABusPasses@ct.gov.

Silas Markham Brooks, Connecticut’s first documented hot air balloonist, was one of many native Connecticans who pursued a colorful — if unpredictable — career as a consummate showman in the 19th century.  Born in Plymouth in 1824, Brooks worked in a local clock-making factory before being hired by P. T. Barnum to help manufacture props and mechanical devices for his many traveling shows and spectacles.  After observing Barnum’s success as an entertainer, Brooks left his employ to (literally) take his own show on the road, moving to St. Louis, Missouri where he set up a Barnum-style museum of curiosities and attractions that he would occasionally take on tour around the Midwest.

Hot air balloonists — including John Wise, a minor celebrity at the time — were frequently among the traveling performers Brooks hired to entertain his visitors.  When a balloonist scheduled to perform at Brooks’ traveling show in 1853 fell ill, Brooks impulsively decided to try piloting the balloon himself, in what became the first of over 180 catalogued balloon ascensions by the adventurous Connecticut Yankee.  Soon, Brooks was advertising himself as “Professor Silas Brooks, the Great American Aeronaut,” and performed balloon-related events throughout the Untied States.

Brooks’ first Connecticut ascent was made in 1854, earning him the title of Connecticut’s first balloonist — but his ascent above the Connecticut River in Middletown on September 2, 1863 was a spectacle to remember. In front of large crowds gathered on the river shore — and a steamship full of tourists who had bought tickets specifically to get an optimal view of the event — Brooks climbed into his hot air balloon basket and proceeded to rise a mile above the Connecticut River, where he hovered for about 40 minutes.  While aloft, he dropped a small dog attached to a parachute out of the basket which safely landed on the ground a few minutes later.  Ever the showman, he also showered the crowd below with leaflets promoting himself and various sponsors before beginning his slow descent back to the ground.

Today, visitors can see one of Silas Brooks’ balloon baskets from the 1870s at the New England Air Museum in Windsor Locks, where it is billed as “the oldest surviving American built aircraft.”

https://www.easthartfordct.gov/residents
 
Town Newsletters
Pulse of East Hartford     
East Hartford Public Schools
East Hartford Works

Got a blender that won’t blend or a bike that needs some TLC? Give your broken items some love and get them repaired for free!
Join us at WORK_SPACE for The Fixery—a hands-on, community-powered pop-up where friendly volunteers help repair your small household items and bicycles.
The event is first come, first served. We ask that you register your item in advance so that we know what to expect and what parts to have available.
What we Fix: 

• Small appliances (lamps, toasters, blenders, etc.)
• Bicycles (brakes, chains, tires, etc.)
• Slight garment/textile repairs (clothes, pillows, etc. - no alterations)
• Minor computer issues (if our volunteer is available)
• All items must be carry-in sized.

Fill in this form to sign up

It's Free! (If parts are needed, we'll help guide you to your next steps.)
Want to Volunteer?
We're always looking for fixers, tinkerers, and teachers to join the Fixery Crew! If you like helping others and know how to fix things - get in touch!
When

• Saturday, September 12, 2026 | 10:00 AM - 02:00 PM
• Saturday, December 12, 2026 | 10:00 AM - 02:00 PM

Location
Work_space Manchester, 903 Main Street, Manchester, CT, View Map

• Meets: Wednesdays, through October 7, 4:30 PM - 7:00 PM
• Location:153 & 163 Spruce Street
• Ages: All ages welcome
• Fee: No cost to attend & free parking

Vendor selections are thoughtfully curated to include diverse foods, and business owners; with products including fresh fruits and vegetables, eggs, honey, maple syrup, mead and wine, coffee beans and loose teas, baked goods, vegan offerings, CT food trucks/tents, and artisans. Enjoy live music and weekly market themes, too! 

The Eastside Farmers Market also accepts SNAP/EBT payments and will double the value of SNAP purchases up to $30.00 (spend $30.00 using your EBT card to receive an additional $30.00 to spend on SNAP-eligible items). All children in attendance receive a $2.00 voucher to spend on fresh produce at each market from the Power of Produce (P.O.P.) Program.
 
When

• Wednesday, September 02, 2026 | 04:30 PM - 07:00 PM
• Wednesday, September 09, 2026 | 04:30 PM - 07:00 PM
• Wednesday, September 16, 2026 | 04:30 PM - 07:00 PM
• Wednesday, September 23, 2026 | 04:30 PM - 07:00 PM

East Hartford Police Department Announces 17th
Session of Citizen Police Academy

The East Hartford Police Department invites all East Hartford residents to participate in the 17th session of the East Hartford Citizen Police Academy.

Classes will run every Thursday for 10 weeks, starting on September 17, 2026, 6:00 - 9:00 p.m., in the East Hartford Police Department’s Training Classroom (31 School Street). 

APPLY HERE

The application deadline is Friday, September 11, 2026. For additional information and to ask questions, contact Officer Jonathan Young at (860) 528-4401, extension 7547 or email jyoung@easthartfordct.gov. 

The Citizen Police Academy is geared towards citizens who reside, work, own a business or are a student in East Hartford. This is a unique opportunity for citizens to learn about their police department and the work they perform in the community. The academy provides an overview of police operations, practices, and objectives. The Citizen Academy is a behind-the-scenes look at what makes our Poilice Department special, where residents are offered the opportunity to see firsthand how exemplary police work is performed. The Academy is a great place to meet the men and women of the EHPD personally and to see their training and individual approach to work. Participation and completion in the Academy allows residents to walk away with a greater appreciation of the whole body of work that keeps our community safe.

The 2026 East Hartford Farmers' Market will occur every Tuesday through October 27, 2026 from 12:00 PM - 2:30 PM at the Town Green (1047 Main Street)! 

Our farmers, Killam & Bassette Farmstead and Handel Family Farm, are authorized to accept SNAP, Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program, and WIC Farmers Market Nutrition Program vouchers. 

We are Accepting Applications for Market Vendors!

Our market is interested in adding more vendors to serve the community. The application can be completed online or vendors can fill out a paper copy to hand in or mail to the Health Department (740 Main St.). Market organizers will review completed applications and notify vendors whether your application is accepted. Vendors are advised to review the East Hartford market guidelines. Click the links below for the application and further information:

• Vendor Application (Online Form)
• Vendor Application Printable Form (English)
• Vendor Application Printable Form (Spanish) - pending 2026 update
• Farmers’ Market Vendor Guidelines  (English) 
• Farmers' Market Vendor Guidelines  (Spanish) - pending 2026 update
• Farmers' Market FAQs (English)
• Farmers' Market FAQs (Spanish) - pending 2026 update

BENEFITS PROGRAMS (2026 season)

SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (SNAP): 

If you receive SNAP benefits, bring your EBT card to the table with the sign that says "SNAP/EBT accepted here" at participating farmers' markets and farm stands. The Market Master will swipe your card for the amount that you want and give you Market Tokens that can be used at all the stands at that market. Residents enrolled in SNAP will be able to double their benefits to purchase fresh produce through the End Hunger CT! SNAP Match program.

WIC FARMERS' MARKET NUTRITION PROGRAM (FMNP): 

WIC clients will be receiving an email inviting you to setup your farmers' market benefits account in the SoliMarket system. This app can be downloaded to your smartphone and will be used to access your farmers' market benefits for fresh produce purchases. WIC FMNP benefits can be used to purchase fruits, vegetables, and fresh herbs. The benefit amount for 2026 is $65 per eligible family member who was active as of 4/28/26. If you have questions about your WIC FMNP benefits, or your eligibility for this program, residents can contact the WIC office at (860) 291-7190. 

SoliMarket for WIC FMNP:

If you have questions, the Soli HelpLine is also a resource for farmers and WIC and Senior participants. You can call the HelpLine, available daily 9am – 9pm through November 30 at 214-256-3083 with questions regarding:

1.    Problems processing transactions

2.    Questions regarding payments

3.    Questions regarding reporting

4.    Problems receiving emails when attempting to finish setting up their account

5.    PIN number issues  

• Participants should call the WIC local office or Senior distribution site:
• To ask about program eligibility and eligibility for FMNP benefits
• To schedule WIC appointments with their local agency 
• Understand when they will receive their FMNP or other benefits 
• To find out when benefits will be received (app or card) 
• Adding new participants and/or family members  

SENIOR FARMERS' MARKET NUTRITION PROGRAM (SFMNP):  

The SFMNP is an electronic benefit card (EBT). This is a supplemental food program, in which eligible participants receive an EBT card annually to purchase eligible products at authorized farmers' markets throughout Connecticut. SFMNP benefits can be used to purchase fruits, vegetables, honey, and fresh herbs. For 2026, eligible recipients will receive $40.00 on their SFMNP EBT card.

Eligible if:  

• You are 60 years of age or older and have a maximum household income not more than the 185% of the annual poverty income guidelines. See the income eligibility guidelines here.  
• If you are a disabled individual under the age of 60, you must live in a housing facility where congregate nutrition services are provided, and have a maximum household income not more than the 185% of the annual poverty income guidelines  

EAST HARTFORD SENIOR SERVICES FARMERS' MARKET VOUCHER:

East Hartford seniors that apply and meet eligibility requirements for the East Hartford Senior Services Farmers’ Market Voucher Program will receive a one-time $40 voucher to purchase fruits, vegetables, eggs, jams, and herbs. The voucher program is open to residents who meet these criteria: 55 and older who meet these criteria:

• must be 55 years old or older
• must be a resident of East Hartford (individuals or families), with proof of residency via a utility bill
• must have an income at or below 250% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines (see below), with proof of income provided

Annual Income Household of 1- $39,900, 2 - $54,100, 3 - $68,300 4 - $82,500, 5 - $96,700, 6 - $110,900  

This voucher can only be used at the East Hartford Farmers’ Market. Residents who wish to apply may contact East Hartford Senior Services by calling 860-291-7491 or visiting the East Hartford Senior Center at 15 Milbrook Drive. Residents may also call Youth & Social Services at 860-291-7248 or visit the YSS office located at 50 Chapman Place. 

BECOME AN EH FARMERS' MARKET PARTNER!

The East Hartford Farmers’ Market is asking for residents and organizations to help fight hunger and food insecurity experienced by residents of our community. As a 2024 East Hartford Market Partner, your donation will help residents that rely on food pantry assistance to buy fresh produce at our market. Available funds will also be used to provide additional support for SNAP, WIC and senior market nutrition program recipients.

Sponsors will be recognized at the market and through the Town's communication channels. Show your shared commitment to health programs that support East Hartford quality of life. Donations are tax deductible to the extent permitted by law. 

How to make your donation to become an EH Farmers' Market Partner:

1. Donate through the Social Services Donation Program by choosing the "Farmers' market partner program" option.

2. Cash donation dropped off to the East Hartford Youth & Social Services Division located at 50 Chapman Place.

3. Check donation dropped off or mailed to the Town of East Hartford, Youth & Social Services Division, 50 Chapman Place, East Hartford, CT 06108. Please make the check payable to "Town of East Hartford Youth & Social Services Division" with "Farmers' Market" noted in the bottom left.

Each spring and fall, the MDC conducts a regional household hazardous waste collection program at a series of local sites in member and non-member towns. The program offers a number of benefits to residents and municipalities:

• Residents have the opportunity to participate in a collection day in their respective towns as well as in other collections throughout the year.
•  Participating municipalities enjoy financial savings from the effect of pooling under a single contract the services of a licensed hazardous waste management firm.
• The contractor assumes full responsibility for the collection, transportation and proper disposal of hazardous waste items.
   

Hazardous waste cannot be simply thrown out with the trash, flushed, or poured down the drain because it passes the problem along to the environment, polluting the air and the water.  So the MDC sponsors a HazWaste Program to collect the waste and dispose of it through safe, environmentally responsible practices. 

The MDC urges you to participate in a Household Hazardous Waste Collection in your town.  Protect the health of your kids, your spouse, your pets, and the environment.  You may participate in MDC’s household hazardous waste collection program if you are a member of any participating town; and you may participate on any MDC sponsored collection day.

Residents of any of the following participating towns can participate in ANY MDC sponsored collection day: Bloomfield, East Granby, East Hartford, Hartford, Newington, Rocky Hill, West Hartford, Wethersfield, Windsor and Windsor Locks.

HOUSEHOLD HAZWASTE INFORMATION PACKET

The Household HazWaste Info Packet contains the complete schedule of MDC sponsored HHW collections for the current calendar year. The Info Packet also summarizes items accepted by the program and items the MDC cannot accept. If an item cannot be accepted at an MDC sponsored collection potential alternative disposal locations are listed. The Info Packet also provides some general information on how to reduce the amount of household hazardous waste you generate.

2026 HazWaste Information Packet

HazWaste info packet for small businesses, non-profits and municipalities

Moving? Please click here for further information!

2026 HOUSEHOLD HAZWASTE COLLECTION SCHEDULE COMING SOON

2026 HazWaste Schedule PDF

All collections are held on Saturdays from 8AM to 1PM unless noted. 

Date         Town                   Location                                                                                    

September 12    Bloomfield    Public Works Building, 21 Southwood Drive
September 19    Rocky Hill    Elm Ridge Park, 376 Elm Street
September 26    West Hartford    Public Works Garage, 17 Brixton Street
October 17    Windsor Locks/East Granby    Public Works Garage, 6 Stanton Road, Windsor Locks
October 24    Hartford    MDC Operations Facility, 125 Maxim Road


(WPCF = Water Pollution Control Facility)
* One collection date is held on a Sunday

2026 Latin Festival

East Hartford's Latin Festival is BACK for another year of music, dancing, food, and a celebration of culture!

Join us at Great River Park (301 East River Drive) from 12:00-5:00pm. Parking is available in the American Eagle Financial Center lot (333 East River Drive).

Stage Schedule Coming Soon! 

Food Truck List Coming Soon! 

39th Annual Senior Picnic

Date and Time

Saturday Sep 19, 2026
11:00 AM - 4:00 PM EDT

Location

Pratt & Whitney Stadium at Rentschler Field

Fees/Admission

Complimentary Admission for attendees
Food Trucks/Vendors/Sponsors varying rates and oportunties
Sponsorship and vending opportunities can be customized to fit your marketing goals and budget. To learn more or discuss sponsorship options, please contact Jessica Olander, President of the CT River Valley Chamber of Commerce, at jessica@crvchamber.org. We'd love to partner with you to help elevate East Hartford and make this inaugural festival a tremendous success!

Website

https://www.crvchamber.org/events/details/inaugural-kite-festival-18873

Contact Information

JESSICA OLANDER
Send Email

🪁 Ready to elevate?  
  
A brand-new East Hartford tradition is about to take flight!

The CT River Valley Chamber of Commerce and the Town of East Hartford are excited to present the Inaugural East Hartford Kite Festival on Saturday, September 19—a brand-new community celebration that promises to fill the skies with color and the day with fun! This family-friendly event will feature live local music, delicious food trucks, local vendors, and, of course, plenty of kites soaring overhead. We're seeking community-minded sponsors and vendors who want to showcase their business while helping launch what is sure to become a signature annual event.