2-1-1 Community Connection

United Way of Connecticut
GIVE. ADVOCATE. VOLUNTEER.

	2-1-1 Community Connection	September 2011

Message from Richard Porth
President, United Way of Connecticut

Helping Connecticut's Long-Term Unemployed

United Way 2-1-1 receives over 2,000 calls each month from unemployed state residents who are typically looking for food, utility or housing assistance and more. Many of these callers are among the 53,000 state residents who have exhausted their 99 weeks of unemployment benefits. The state estimates that 540 residents lose their unemployment benefits each week. 2-1-1 remains dedicated to helping the unemployed get connected to available resources. The 2-1-1 Navigator can help residents understand the benefits they may be eligible for and 2-1-1's online guide Where to Turn in Connecticut When You Become Unemployed provides a comprehensive guide to resources. 2-1-1 is available 24 hours a day by phone or online.

Resources for Female Veterans

Women are currently the fastest growing group in the U.S. military accounting for nearly 20% of active armed forces. In Connecticut, there are 15,000 women veterans. While female vets receive the same benefits and services as their male counterparts, local and federal veteran resources try to address specialized medical and health services for women. For a list of resources for women veterans, visit 2-1-1's new eLibrary paper Connecticut Women Veterans Resources.

SNAP Storm Reimbursement Assistance

State residents who receive SNAP (food stamps) and who lost food during the power outages after Tropical Storm Irene, may be eligible for reimbursement. The state initially reimbursed SNAP recipients 25% of their August allocation, but if someone lost more than that amount, they can file for an additional reimbursement. Dial 2-1-1 or click here for more information. The deadline is September 19.

Reporting Storm Damage to FEMA

Connecticut residents who incurred storm damage from Tropical Storm Irene must register with FEMA and report their loses by November 3, 2011 even if they previously reported damage to another source. To register by phone, call 1-800-621-FEMA(3362), seven days a week from 7am to 10pm. Applications can also be accessed at www.disasterassistance.gov.

HOTLINKS FROM UWC!

Click here for information on donating to Tropical Storm Irene relief efforts.
United Way 2-1-1 is on YouTube! Click here to view 2-1-1's new video!

The mission of the United Way of Connecticut is to help meet the needs of Connecticut residents by providing information, education and connection to services.

United Way of Connecticut GIVE. ADVOCATE. VOLUNTEER.

United Way of Connecticut
GIVE. ADVOCATE. VOLUNTEER.