Filling out your taxes before the deadline can be stressful, but there are free resources to maximize your return! Keep scrolling to see if you're eligible.
I will host a vibrant community fair highlighting free programs and services available to you. Read below to find out where and when that event will take place.
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You will find the following sections in today's email:
- Free Tax Prep Services
- Join Me for a Free Community Resource Fair
- Expanding Financial Aid
- Observing Holy Week
- UConn Final Four
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| Free Tax Preparation Services |
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Time is running out to file your tax returns before the April 15 deadline, but free, trusted help is available for those who need it.
The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program offers free, reliable tax preparation services to individuals making less than $69,000 and cannot prepare their own returns. Volunteers are trained to help prepare basic tax returns and help ensure taxpayers claim valuable credits without paying high fees or risking costly mistakes. |
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The AARP Tax-Aide Program also provides free tax counseling and preparation services to middle-and low-income taxpayers, with special attention to adults age 60 and older. Many locations offer free electronic filing for both federal and Connecticut returns. You can find a nearby site using the AARP Tax-Aide Site Locator.
These programs put real money back into the pockets of hardworking families. I encourage you to use these services because they are safe, trusted, and designed to support the community. |
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| Join Me for a Free Community Resource Fair |
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You are invited to my Second Family Resource Fair, a free community event to connect residents with valuable programs, services, and support available in and around Hartford.
The event will take place on Saturday, April 11 from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Maria Reina de la Paz Parish on New Britain Avenue. |
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This resource fair will bring together hospitals, state agencies, and community organizations to share important information that can help individuals and families, from health care and education to housing and workforce support. It's a great opportunity to learn what's available, ask questions, and get connected to resources that can make a real difference.
In addition to the resource tables, attendees can enjoy free food, live music, and a welcoming family-friendly atmosphere, with help from some of my legislative colleagues. I hope you will join us for an afternoon of connection, community, and support. |
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| Espero que puede venir a mi evento el sábado 11 de abril de 11 a.m. a 2 p.m. en Maria Reina de la Paz. ¡Nos vemos! |
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The state is making high-demand career pathways more accessible by significantly expanding financial aid. Governor Ned Lamont announced the Connecticut Office of Workforce Strategy will implement new, federal Workforce Pell Grants.
These grants offer need-based aid to low-income students for programs ranging from eight to 15 weeks and comprising 150 to 599 clock hours of instruction. Previously, programs needed to be at least 15 weeks and 600 hours long to qualify. |
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Programs must meet strict performance and quality standards including:
- Aligning with high-skill, high-wage, or in-demand industries
- Achieving at least a 70% completion rate and 70% job placement rate
- Resulting in wages above the state median for high school graduates
The initiative is intended to strengthen Connecticut’s talent pipeline while making education more accessible. Workforce Pell Grants are scheduled to take effect on July 1, 2026.
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| This week, many members of the community will observe sacred and deeply meaningful religious holidays. |
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Families of the Jewish faith have started gathering for Passover, commemorating the Israelites' liberation from slavery in Egypt and celebrating faith, resilience, and freedom. The Seder brings loved ones together to reflect on enduring traditions and the meaning of redemption.
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On Friday, Christians will observe Good Friday, a solemn day remembering the crucifixion and sacrifice of Jesus Christ. The week culminates on Easter Sunday, when Christians celebrate the resurrection, a message of hope and renewal.
These observances remind us of the enduring power of reflection and community. To all who are celebrating, I wish you and your families a meaningful and peaceful holiday.
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Many of us will be watching with pride as both UConn's women's and men's basketball teams continue their incredible runs toward a national championship! Incredibly, both teams have advanced to the Final Four and are just two wins away from the ultimate goal.
The UConn women tip off at 7 p.m. on Friday in Phoenix, while the men take the court at 6 p.m. on Saturday in Indianapolis.
It's another remarkable moment for Connecticut. Let's go Huskies! |
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