Westport, CT—Human Services Director Elaine Daignault announced the launch of the Town’s annual Back-to-School and Afterschool Child Care Campaign today. The Family-to-Family fundraising campaign helps income-eligible Westport families and students prepare for the upcoming academic year.
According to Daignault, “As exciting as the back-to-school season is, many Westport families face difficult financial decisions as they navigate the rising cost of food and housing expenses combined with the additional burden of purchasing school supplies and clothing for their children immediately following summer childcare and camp expenses that have stretched their budgets.”
Human Services Family-to-Family programs rely on community donations to provide crucial resources for Westport’s financially insecure families. Community contributions allow Human Service to:
distribute Walmart gift cards to bridge the financial gap for families who must purchase school supplies, backpacks, clothing, and other essentials to prepare their children for the new school year.
provide families with crucial aftercare financial assistance for children who require safe, enriching, and nurturing environments after school so their parents can continue to work and provide for their families.
“Community donations provide more than financial support; they also create a community connection for families that can often feel disconnected from their peer groups, offering financial and moral support during difficult times,” said Daignault.
Tax-deductible donations of any amount will directly and positively impact the lives of those in need. No contribution is too small; every dollar counts in Human Services’ efforts to support hardworking families. To contribute:
ONLINE – go to www.westportct.gov/donate to access Westport Human Services’ donation portal “We Care Westport” and click “Family to Family Programs—Seasonal Program.”
BY MAIL – with checks payable to the “Town of Westport Human Services” (Family Programs- BTS or Afterschool Program in the memo line) at 110 Myrtle Ave Westport, CT 06880.
DROP OFF – Walmart gift card donations to Westport Human Services Room 200 at Town Hall.
Family Program Specialist Annette D’Augelli adds, “Thank you in advance for your consideration and support in making the Back-to-School and Afterschool Childcare Program successful. Together, we can create an environment where every student has the tools to thrive academically and achieve their full potential.”
For more information, the Westport Human Services care team can be reached at (203)341-1050 or humansrv@westport.gov. If you or a friend need help, rest assured that every inquiry is confidential, with professional social workers providing a listening ear and resources to assist in determining available resources and support.
Initial Campaign Launch Includes a New, Limited-Time State Program To Remove Lead Paint From Homes at No-Cost to Homeowners and Landlords
(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced the launch of Lead Free CT, a new campaign overseen by the Connecticut Department of Public Health with the goal of protecting children from the harmful health impacts of lead and creating a lead-free Connecticut.
Its objectives of include:
Making older homes where children or pregnant people live lead safe;
Collecting information on all known lead service water lines in Connecticut;
Replacing lead pipes that bring water to homes, childcare centers, and schools;
Supporting families who find lead in their home or water;
Offering funding to get Connecticut communities lead-free;
Having all Connecticut children tested for lead;
Raising awareness of lead testing and safety among parents; and
Educating communities, contractors, and landlords on lead laws and safety.
A key component of the Lead Free CT campaign includes the launch of a lead abatement program, which is providing homeowners and landlords with the opportunity to make older homes lead-safe by removing lead paint hazards at no cost. Funded by $20 million from the federal American Rescue Plan Act, this limited-time program will help in the safe removal of lead hazards from homes, including family childcare settings. Participation in this program is entirely voluntary and free of charge to homeowners and landlords. The Connecticut Department of Public Health is partnering with the Connecticut Children’s Medical Center to administer the program.
To view eligibility details and apply, visit leadfreect.org. This is a limited-time program, so those who are interested are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.
“Every year, more than 1,000 Connecticut children are impacted by lead,” Governor Lamont said. “Lead poisoning can affect our children by causing health and brain changes that may impact them through school years and beyond – causing behavior problems, poor performance, and a risk of long-term, negative impacts. Based on the data of children tested in Connecticut, where blood lead levels trigger the requirement for environmental testing of the home, lead-based paint and lead dust in pre-1978 homes are the largest contributors to childhood lead exposure in homes.”
“Harmful lead exposure should not happen to any child,” Connecticut Public Health Commissioner Manisha Juthani, MD, said. “It is 100% preventable. The Department of Public Health is investing in our communities so that every child can grow up safe from lead. Children under age six, and especially those aged one to three, are most vulnerable to lead exposure. In Connecticut, children of color and children from neighborhoods with high poverty rates are disproportionately impacted by these risks.”
“Connecticut has many beautiful houses, many of which were built prior to 1978,” Connecticut Public Health Deputy Commissioner Lisa Morrissey, MPH, said. “In these homes, windows, doors, walls, baseboards and railings were coated with lead-based paint. This is a unique opportunity to remove lead hazards before a child is exposed at home or in a childcare setting. The funding will ensure that children can grow up in a lead safe environment.”
“I am thrilled that we are partnering with the Connecticut Department of Public Health to help keep our children safe from lead exposure,” Jim Shmerling, DHA, FACHE, president and chief executive officer of Connecticut Children’s, said. “This initiative allows Connecticut residents to make their older homes lead safe. It’s a big step forward in protecting our kids and ensuring safe, stable homes for all families in our communities.”
“This $20 million initiative will ensure that more Connecticut families are growing, playing, and learning in safe, lead-free homes,” U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal said. “Lead poisoning can cause devastating and irreversible damage, especially to children, and I am thrilled to see federal American Rescue Plan Act dollars being used to tackle this critical health hazard. I applaud Governor Lamont and Commissioner Juthani for championing this program and making a real difference in the lives and health of Connecticut families.”
“We passed the American Rescue Plan in Congress to ensure states and communities had the resources they needed to recover from the pandemic and bolster public health,” U.S. Congressman John B. Larson (CT-01) said. “Lead is far too commonly found in historic New England homes, leaving Connecticut’s children especially vulnerable to lead poisoning. I applaud Governor Lamont, the Connecticut Department of Public Health, and Connecticut Children’s for using this funding to assist homeowners with the removal of dangerous lead paint and take on the challenge of protecting our kids from lead poisoning and other dangerous toxins.”
“I applaud Governor Lamont’s efforts to rid Connecticut of harmful contaminants and mitigate fears of lead poisoning for children,” U.S. Congressman Jim Himes (CT-04) said. “I am especially heartened that federal dollars provided by the American Rescue Plan Act will help state officials deliver this smart, comprehensive solution for Connecticut’s families.”
The Connecticut Department of Public Health plans for subsequent phases of the Lead Free CT campaign to include community engagement for lead service line replacement and testing drinking water for lead at daycares and schools.
Report of a car that struck the center barrier on I-95 Southbound by exit 24. First responders are on scene so expect some traffic delays while they handle the situation.
Bridgeport Emergency Communications received reports of a man falling onto the train tracks at 525 Water Street. The man became stuck between the platform and a departing train. The man has been transported to the hospital with unknown injuries. No further information is available at this time.
Bridgeport, CT – Mayor Ganim and Dr. Carmela Levy-David have issued statements regarding the tragic incident involving nine family members of a Bridgeport Board of Education custodial staff member:
Dr. Carmela Levy-David stated, “It is with a heavy heart that I share the devastating news that one of our cherished custodial staff members has suffered an unimaginable loss. Nine members of their family were tragically killed in a car accident out of state. On behalf of the entire Bridgeport Public Schools community, I extend our deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences to our colleague and their family during this incredibly challenging time. Our thoughts and prayers are with them as they navigate through this profound grief. We kindly ask that everyone respects the privacy of our staff member and their family. In moments like these, it is crucial to provide them the space and time they need to mourn and heal. Bridgeport Public Schools is committed to supporting our employee in every possible way. We are here to offer any assistance and comfort they may need during this period. Together, as a community, we stand with our colleague, offering our prayers, support, and love.”
Mayor Ganim stated, “On behalf of the City of Bridgeport, I want to express our deepest condolences to the custodial staff member who lost their family members during a tragic accident. The amount of grief that comes from losing a loved one is never easy, and unfortunately, this instance calls for an unparalleled amount of sorrow as multiple losses have taken place. All our hearts, thoughts, and prayers are with the custodial staff member and the rest of their family as they embark on a mournful journey toward healing. The City of Bridgeport echoes the sentiments made by Dr. Carmela-Levy David and we encourage all to allow the custodial staff member enough space to heal and grieve at this time.”
FAIRFIELD, CT — The Town of Fairfield is excited to announce that Fairfield Oktoberfest will return on September 14 from 2:00 – 6:00 PM in the Lot at FTC located at 70 Sanford Street in downtown Fairfield. Now in its second year, this event is a partnership of the Fairfield Office of Community & Economic Development, Fairfield Parks & Recreation Department, and Fairfield Theatre Company.
The event will feature live music by Dennis Polisky & Maestro’s Men and the Benny Mikula Band (of Alpaca Gnomes) along with axe throwing and corn hole. Local food trucks with festive food offerings will be on site as well as vendors presenting a curated selection of adult beverages for those 21 and older. Commemorative Fairfield Oktoberfest t-shirts and steins will be available for purchase.
Community & Economic Development Director Mark Barnhart added, “With the success of last year’s event, we are excited for the return of Fairfield Oktoberfest! This is a unique opportunity to gain marketing exposure at an annual event that draws a large crowd to our downtown. It’s always great to partner with FTC, one of the premier live music venues in the State.”
Fire Department UPDATE: At 5:45pm Bridgeport Fire Department was dispatched to the 1700 block of Noble Ave for a structure fire in a single family home. Arriving units found heavy smoke showing from the structure and commenced an aggressive interior fire attach while searching for occupants. Fire was declared under control in approximately 30 minutes with no injuries to department members. AMR evaluated 1 civilian for possible smoke inhalation and the Red Cross will be relocating 2 adults and 1 teenage son. The Fire Marshal’s Office will be investigating the cause of the fire.
The homeowners came home and found the fire department in their house in the 1700 block of Noble Avenue. An unconfirmed report said it started in a back bedroom. The fire marshal was called in to investigate the cause
On Saturday, July 13, 2024, at 6:54 PM, Norwalk Police Combined Dispatch received multiple 911 calls reporting shots fired at the 200 block of Ely Avenue, the Roodner Court Public Housing Complex. Patrol Officers arrived and found evidence of gunfire. A 15-year-old victim was subsequently dropped off at Norwalk Hospital with a non-life-threatening gunshot wound. The Detective Bureau took over the investigation, leading to the swift arrest of the shooter. Further investigation revealed the involvement of other participants, resulting in arrest warrants for those individuals. As of now, all involved parties have been arrested.
Essence Broome, 33, was arrested on August 2, 2024. She faces charges of Risk of Injury to a Child and Trespassing 3rd Degree, with a bond set at $100,000. Her court date is August 16, 2024. Latrel Stewart, 24, was also arrested on August 2, 2024. He is charged with Breach of Peace 2nd Degree, Criminal Attempt of Assault 2nd Degree, and Criminal Trespass 3rd Degree, with a bond set at $50,000. His court date is August 16, 2024.
Home Health and Access Agencies Can Begin Applying for the Grants on August 7, 2024
(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced the impending launch of the In-Home Safety Grant Program, a new state grant program administered by the Connecticut Department of Social Services aimed at enhancing the safety and security of home health care workers in Connecticut.
Established by the enactment of Public Act 24-19 – which was approved by the Connecticut General Assembly during the 2024 regular legislative session and then signed into law by Governor Lamont – this program will provide grants to home health and access agencies to fund improved safety protocols and support services for their workers. This includes items such as emergency alert buttons, buddy escort systems, tracking devices, safety training, risk-scoring tools, safety consultants, and the establishment of dedicated phone lines for staff in the field to access immediate support.
“Ensuring the safety and well-being of both our home health care workers and the individuals they serve is a top priority for the state,” Governor Lamont said. “This grant program is a significant step towards providing the necessary tools and training to protect workers who provide an invaluable service to our state, especially for those who are most vulnerable. I look forward to a continued collaboration with our community partners to maximize the impact of these resources and increase the safety of home health care workers.”
“Prioritizing the safety of our caretakers took precedence this year,” Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz said. “A disproportionate number of home health care workers are women and women of color who serve in our vulnerable communities every single day. It is important we provide safer environments and the training and skills necessary for them to do their jobs without personal risk.”
“By investing in these safety measures, we are not only protecting our dedicated health care workers, but also ensuring that our clients receive the highest quality care in the safest possible environment,” Social Services Commissioner Andrea Barton Reeves said.
Senate President Pro Tempore Martin Looney (D-New Haven) said, “Making life easier for the people who work tirelessly to support so many in our state is something sorely needed, which is why this program was part of Senate Bill 1 this year – our foremost priority as a caucus. Home care workers perform vital care for countless Connecticut residents, and they should be able to go to work without concerns over their safety. These workers enable many frail and elderly people to continue living in their own homes rather than in institutions and deserve our gratitude, support, and protection.”
State Senator Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor), co-chair of the legislature’s Public Health Committee, said, “Violence is unfortunately a growing problem for health workers, especially home care workers. After the deaths of multiple home care workers in late 2023 and early 2024 in Connecticut, including the murder of home care nurse Joyce Grayson, we need to do better by those who keep us safe. I’m glad this grant program will become a new resource helping the hardworking individuals who perform necessary, personal care for so many.”
State Representative Cristin McCarthy Vahey (D-Bridgeport Fairfield), co-chair of the legislature’s Public Health Committee said, “Our job is to help the helpers and protect home health care workers who are doing their jobs – helping others. Through new provisions including safety training and emergency alerts, our state is making critical progress in protecting both workers and patients alike. I thank Governor Lamont and all of our community partners for their support for this bill.”
State Senator Heather Somers (R-Groton), ranking member of the legislature’s Public Health Committee, said, “Home health care workers are the unsung heroes who provide essential care to our most vulnerable residents, often at great personal risk. They face numerous challenges, including the threat of violence, while performing their duties. We are proud to have passed legislation that will provide much-needed grants to home health and access agencies to fund enhanced safety protocols and support services, ensuring a safer working environment for these invaluable workers.”
State Representative Nicole Klarides-Ditria (R-Beacon Falls, Derby, Seymour), ranking member of the legislature’s Public Health Committee said, “I’m happy these grants are being made available to help provide the training and resources to create a safer working environment for our dedicated home healthcare workers. Protecting home healthcare workers was a priority this session and these funds and the increased and enhanced training and oversight will undoubtedly provide increased safety and peace of mind.”
State Representative Jane Garibay (D-Windsor, Windsor Locks), co-chair of the legislature’s Aging Committee, said, “This grant program will help to ensure that our home health care workers, so dedicated in their service to our elderly and other vulnerable populations, can now have the tools and resources they need to assure workplace safety and wellbeing. Our home health care workers deserve an environment free from violence or harassment. Prioritizing workplace safety was a primary goal of Speaker Ritter and the Aging Committee. It benefits our aging population, and I am proud to have been a part of supporting this effort.”
Home health and access agencies interested in applying for grants can begin submitting applications to the Connecticut Department of Social Services starting August 7, 2024. An online application form will be made available on that date at portal.ct.gov/dss/common-elements/home-and-community-based-services.
The application process is designed to ensure timely and efficient distribution of funds, allowing agencies to quickly implement these crucial safety measures. The first round of grants are anticipated to be released by the end of October.
The initial launch of this program is being financially supported by $6 million in funding allocated by the Connecticut General Assembly and Governor Lamont through funding the state received from the federal American Rescue Plan Act.
