Dear Friends-

As winter approaches, there are a number of assistance programs available for households who need help with their bills. We passed the American Rescue Plan in Congress, which more than doubled funding for home heating assistance and offered support for renters during the pandemic. 

Homeowners and renters should contact their Community Action Agency to apply for home heating support through the Connecticut Energy Assistance Program. Learn more about eligibility and how to contact your local Agency at ct.gov/staywarm. 

Additional assistance is available. If you are unable to pay your heating bill, ask your utility provider about Connecticut’s Winter Protection Program, which protects eligible households from heating source shut-offs through May 1st. Call 2-1-1 or visit uwc.211ct.org/winter-protection-winter-moratorium to learn more. 

There is still help available for rental and electricity payment assistance through UniteCT, funded by the American Rescue Plan. You may be eligible for $15,000 in rental assistance and up to $1,500 in electricity payment assistance. Visit portal.ct.gov/DOH/DOH/Programs/UniteCT to apply. 

All regulated utility companies in the State of Connecticut have been directed to offer COVID-19 payment plans to customers requesting financial assistance in order to pay down past bills or their current balance. Contact your utility company for more information. 

Keeping residents warm, protected, and in their homes is essential and Connecticut has lots of resources to offer. Please dial 2-1-1 for any additional information related to home heating assistance. 

To follow what I’m working on both in Washington and in Connecticut, visit my Facebook page, follow me on Twitter, or follow me on Instagram.  

Regards,
 
John B. Larson
Member of Congress