As fall transitions into winter, United Way braces for a spike in requests for assistance. The cold weather brings a lot more than just snow. This time of year, not only those who are less fortunate, but also everyday people begin to struggle paying their bills.
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Heating/Utility bills dramatically increase to combat the cold. In some cases it’s a catch-22 for people who are struggling. For example they can’t afford to pay additional bills but excessively dropping the temperature in a home to conserve can result in the freezing of pipes, which will only incur even more expenses. Combine this scenario with a Connecticut unemployment rate that is floating around 10 percent and you have yourself a serious problem. Often times people do not know where to turn, who to call or what to do.
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By dialing 2-1-1, a toll-free info line, callers can reach knowledgeable, multi-lingual staff with questions on health and human services information, specializes services in child care, child development and disabilities and HUSKY health insurance. All 2-1-1 services are confidential. Representatives are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. In addition to being able to answer questions over the phone, 2-1-1 information is available online at www.211.org.
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2-1-1 handled 6,754 calls that produced 9,782 requests for services from Valley United Way towns of Ansonia, Derby, Seymour, Shelton and Oxford. Here is the report of all 2-1-1 service requests in 2009.
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Biggest service request increases:
Heat/Utilities +751
Public Assistance Programs +168
Food +104
Health Support Services +74
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