COVID-19 Help & Resources Available:
Although our doors are still locked to the public, we are looking forward to reopening soon. Our staff is available Monday – Friday 8:00 – 4:00 to offer help and resources to residents who have been impacted by COVID-19. Due to the generosity of the greater community, we have created a special COVID-19/Crisis Relief Fund. This fund targets assistance to those residents who do not qualify for other needs-based programs and whose lives have been negatively changed by COVID-19. Call to find out more or to apply confidentially.
SCA is Assisting Older Residents to Access COVID-19 Vaccine: SCA staff is assisting CDC-eligible, older residents in exploring their options for obtaining COVID-19 vaccine. Priority is given to those residents age 75+ and/or who do not have access to a computer.
Dementia Caregiver Virtual Support Group Meets Monthly: The group is led by a trained Alzheimer’s Association facilitator, Nicole Matson of Home Helpers of Central CT. Email Nicole at nmatson@homehelpershomecare.com for the ZOOM link or call 860-810-6123. Residents can call 860-668-1986 for more info. The next meeting is Tuesday, April 27 at 11:00 a.m.
Do You Heat with a Utility? It is not too late to apply for help: If you heat with electric or gas, there is still time to apply for help to offset the cost of heating your home. The deadline to apply is May 1. Residents who heat with oil should call to explore assistance options. Please contact SCA to apply at 860-668-1986.
Operation Fuel Can Provide a One-time Grant of up to $500 to Assist Eligible Families with Their Energy Bills:
Operation Fuel partners with SCA, and more than 100 agencies across the state, to provide low-income families with year-round emergency energy help. Assistance is provided for residents in crisis for help with their oil, electric, natural gas, propane, or water arrearage bills. Call SCA or go to www.operationfuel.org for more information.
Rental Rebate Program for Elderly & Disabled Residents:
The State provides a reimbursement program for renters who are elderly or disabled, and whose incomes do not exceed certain limits. SCA will be doing phone and email applications for the CT Renter’s Rebate program. Limited in-person appointments will be available in the coming months.
Some Ongoing Programs and Updates:
SCA Food Pantry is Well Stocked to Help with Your Food & Personal Care Needs: If you could benefit from food assistance or personal care items, SCA can help. Call for confidential and discreet help – 860-668-1986.
James F. Coggins, Jr. Community Service Award – Open to Applicants!
In memory of our late volunteer and Board Member, James F. Coggins, Jr., SCA 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 SCA at 450 South Street, or email janetf@suffieldcommunityaid.org. The deadline to apply is midnight on Monday, May 10, 2021.
Jane Purtill Fuller Scholarship for Nursing or Social Service Candidates:
To recognize the many contributions of our past employee and long-time supporter of Suffield Community Aid, the Board of Directors dedicates an annual needs-based scholarship in memory of Jane Purtill Fuller. This scholarship will be 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 SCA at 860-668-1986. The application deadline is Monday, May 10, 2021.
Confused About Your Medicare Options? Perhaps you are turning 65 soon…
Medicare is Complicated! Want to see if you can save some money? Trained volunteers can provide unbiased assistance. Call 860-668-1986 to schedule a telephone appointment. In-person appointments are available on a limited basis.
Are Meals-on-Wheels an Option for You? Qualified homebound Suffield seniors age 60 and over, can receive healthy lunches and dinners delivered to their door. Meals are diet specific. A $3 donation per meal is suggested by CRT to help cover costs. Safety precautions have been implemented to eliminate any need for direct person-to-person contact.