Access Health CT Deadline Extension, Energy Assistance, and SNAP work rule changes

January 7, 2026


Access Health CT has extended the final deadline to enroll in a health or dental plan for 2026 to Saturday, January 31. Customers who enroll or renew now will have coverage starting February 1.
 
Recent federal changes mean the amount of financial help available and who is eligible has changed. However, Connecticut has stepped up which means that financial assistance is still available.
 
Some customers might qualify for new state subsidies or other low- or no-cost coverage options, including the Covered CT Program or HUSKY Health, Connecticut’s Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).

Customers can visit AccessHealthCT.com and click the “Get Help” button on the homepage to find the option that works best for them, including scheduling an appointment, finding a nearby Navigator site or attending an enrollment fair. Help is available in over 100 languages.

Free help to sign up is available online, in person and over the phone.

Emergency Energy Assistance

The Generation Power CT (GPCT) Emergency Energy Assistance Program is accepting applications through Saturday, January 10. This program provides a one-time grant of up to $500 toward a future fuel delivery or toward a past-due utility bill.
 
Increasing energy costs are a challenge for many in the state, but through this program, GPCT has helped provide families across Connecticut with secure access to heat, power, and water.
 
All GPCT energy programs are available to income-eligible households making up to 75% SMI gross household income. For the best chance of approval, and to make full use of this once-per-12-months grant, GPCT strongly encourages households to apply for assistance when you are most in need. After the January application period, GPCT has one remaining Energy Assistance Application Cycle this season from March 2-10.

Click here to learn more about eligibility requirements and application materials.

Water Assistance

Water assistance for customers serviced by The Metropolitan District Commission (MDC) is open. Eligible households may receive a grant of up to $400 to help cover water expenses. The Water Assistance Program is available year-round or until funding is exhausted.

Click here to review eligibility requirements, gather necessary materials, and APPLY TODAY!

Understanding New SNAP Work Rules

The state is reminding those with SNAP benefits that new, federal legislation has changed eligibility standards. The Connecticut Department of Social Services asks that SNAP recipients answer a few questions to find out if they're affected. Click here to take the evaluation.

Radon Awareness

January is Radon Action Month! Radon is a colorless, odorless gas that you can’t see, smell, or taste. Over time, it can build up in your home and increase the risk of serious health problems, including lung cancer.

Click here to learn more about radon, how it can affect your health, and how you can take action.

Community Events

Christmas tree disposal is available through Friday, January 16, weather-permitting.  Trees should be placed on the curb near trash bins with no plastic bags or decorations.

Residents are also encouraged to bring their Christmas trees to the Transfer Station at 1 Ecology Drive for disposal at no charge.

Regular Transfer Station hours are Monday, Tuesday and Friday 7:15 a.m. to Noon and 12:30 p.m. to 2:45 P.M. Saturdays 8:00 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. first and third Saturdays of the month, holidays excluded.

For additional information, please call the East Hartford Public Works at 860-291-7374.

If you are a young woman looking for a safe and supportive space to explore trauma-informed topics such as empowerment, self-care, healthy relationships, and self-confidence register now to take part in the Young Women's Support Group.

Space is limited, registration is first come first serve, and for East Hartford residents only.

Click here for more information and to register. If you have any questions please feel free to reach out to the Youth and Social Services Program Coordinator at 860-291-7183.