The Suffield Lions Club is partnering with the Emergency Aid Association staff and volunteers to conduct “KidSight USA” vision screening in Suffield’s pre-schools, elementary school, middle school and intermediate school during the week of March 27. The screenings use the Welch-Allyn SPOT Camera, designed to test for vision deficiencies that can occur in children aged 6 months to 7 years. The vision program screens for: Hyperopia “Farsightedness”, Myopia “Nearsightedness”, Astigmatism, Antimetropia, and Strabismus. Unless vision problems are detected early and corrected, they risk becoming permanent. For more information, or to arrange to have your child screened, call Ed Kozloski, Suffield Lions Club at 860-930-7571 or the EAA at 860-668-1986.
Bereavement Support Group
The Emergency Aid Association is partnering with Masonicare Partners Home Health & Hospice to offer an eight-session support group to persons who are grieving the loss of a loved one. The group will meet at the EAA building located at 450 South Street, Suffield on Friday mornings at 11 a.m. beginning March 17 and ending on May 12. (There is no class on April 14.) The program is offered at no cost and a light lunch will be provided. The Suffield Mini-Bus will be available to assist with transport, but residents must call and reserve in advance. Registration is required and space is limited – please call Linda Huff at 860-290-6771 to register. Call the EAA for more info. 860-668-1986.
James F. Coggins, Jr. Community Service Award
In memory of our late volunteer and Board Member, James F. Coggins, Jr., the EAA offers a $1,000 award to a graduating Suffield high school senior who demonstrates selflessness, generosity and concern for the community through their volunteer activities. Applicants are required to submit a 500-word essay supporting their selection to the EAA at 450 South Street, Suffield 06078 or email to eaa@suffieldeaa.org. The deadline to apply is midnight on Monday, May 15.
Jane Purtill Fuller Scholarship
To recognize the many contributions of our past employee and long-time supporter of the Emergency Aid Association, the Board of Directors dedicated an annual needs-based scholarship in memory of Jane Purtill Fuller. This scholarship is awarded to a graduating Suffield high-school senior pursuing a nursing or social service field of study. Applicants wishing to apply are encouraged to fill out the common application at the Suffield High School or call the EAA at 860-668-1986. The deadline for applications is May 15.
EAA Taking Applications for the CT Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) and the Contingency Heating Assistance Program (CHAP) This Winter
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. Through the Emergency Aid Association, Operation Fuel provides an energy assistance program for clients who need help paying for their primary or secondary energy source. This program is for households living at 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 documentations needed.
EAA Donations
Many thanks to everyone who donated personal care and non-perishable food items in February to benefit Suffield Emergency Aid in memory of Bob Warren.