In memory of Bob Warren’s “Food For Thought” column, the Observer staff encourages Suffield residents to donate “Food” as well as personal care items (e.g., toothpaste, paper towels, etc.) to the Suffield Emergency Aid Association. Collection boxes will be at the Suffield Emergency Aid and Observer offices in February.
EAA Taking Applications for the Connecticut
Energy Assistance
Program (CEAP) and the Contingency Heating
Assistance Program (CHAP)
These government programs are designed to help offset the winter heating costs for eligible households. The goal is to assist eligible Connecticut residents with their fuel needs so that their health is not jeopardized by the inability to afford critical heat. If eligible, residents may be able to get assistance for heat. Proof of income and liquid assets are required at the time of application for all household members. Both homeowners and renters are encouraged to apply. Please contact the EAA for more information or to schedule an appointment at 860-668-1986. More information on eligibility is available at www.ct.gov/staywarm
Operation Fuel an Option for Suffield Residents
Operation Fuel is a private, non-profit statewide program that provides emergency energy assistance to lower income working families and elderly residents. The mission of Operation Fuel is to partner with communities to ensure people in need have access to year-round energy assistance. Beginning December 2016, Operation Fuel will administer an energy assistance program for clients who need help paying for their primary or secondary energy source. This program is for households living on up to 60% of State Median income. There is no asset limit. The maximum household grant is $500.
Please contact the EAA to discuss application process and documentation needed.
EAA Seeks Residents for Priority Emergency
Response List
The Emergency Aid Association is currently updating its lists of residents in the community who would benefit from a check-up call during a town or state-wide emergency. Residents who use oxygen or need electricity for medical equipment are strongly encouraged to call. Names, addresses, medical information, and family contact information will be included for confidential use in the event of an emergency as declared by the First Selectman. If you or someone you know would like to be included on this list, please contact the EAA at 860-668-1986.
Ellington Regional
Housing Rehabilitation Program for SUFFIELD Homeowners
If you are a low or moderate income household, (e.g., a family of four may earn up to $65,800) you may be eligible for a deferred payment loan with no interest and no payments as long as you own your home. The loan can be used for roofing, septic, well, plumbing, heating, electrical, handicap accessibility, asbestos/lead abatement, carpentry and other repair work on single and multi-family units up to four units.
Call the EAA at 860-668-1986 or call the Ellington Community Development Office directly at 860-870-3132 on Tuesdays between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. or leave a message with your name and address, download the application on the Town of Ellington’s website or apply in person on Tuesdays at the Ellington Community Development Office.
Durable Medical Items Available for FREE Loan to Residents
The Emergency Aid Association has many medical items available for long and short-term loan to residents, including wheelchairs, transport chairs, folding walkers, canes, commodes and shower seats. For more information about this free service, call the EAA at 860-668-1986.
EAA Thanks the Community for its Holiday Generosity
The Emergency Aid Association wishes to extend our sincere thanks to all the individuals, families, schools, scouting organizations, churches, businesses and Town Departments that helped to make the 2016 Holiday Basket Program such a great success. Ninety-two Suffield households, comprised of 260 men, women and children, had a more enjoyable holiday season because of the generosity of others. We could not provide this valuable service to our residents, struggling with health and financial challenges, were it not for the generous support of this very caring community.