Rochelle shares information about winter heating assistance

The days are beginning to cool down and soon the cold months of winter will be approaching. During the current economic conditions, many residents across the state may be questioning how they will pay their heating bills. There are several options for those who may need extra support this season. The Connecticut Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) is now open at community action agencies. This program is designed to help offset the winter heating costs of Connecticut's lower income households and is funded by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' (HHS) Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) Block Grant. Please click here for additional information. This program is administered by the Department of Social Services, and coordinated by regional Community Action Agencies, in cooperation with municipal and other non-profit human service agencies. For additional information about programs and services provided by CT Community Action Agencies, please click here. Ansonia and Derby residents in need of assistance can apply for the program through TEAM, Inc., here. Operation Fuel, our country's oldest fuel bank, is also a great resource to help residents with their home heating costs and helps families avoid heat, electric, and water shutoffs, year-round through one-time energy assistance and home system repair and replacement grants. To help families affected by the ongoing pandemic, Operation Fuel has increased its grant awards and adjusted eligibility guidelines. Click here to learn more about Operation Fuel or apply for direct assistance. Anyone with questions can email opfuelapplications@operationfuel.org or call 860-243-2345. You may also contact 2-1-1, United Way or the DSS Office of Community Services at 1-800-842-1132 for more information. This is shared from a press release from Rochelle's office.