Henry Genga

Kickball for a Cause! On Monday, we came together at Dunkin’ Park for the 5th Annual Democrats vs. Republicans Kickball Game in support of the United Way of Connecticut. The afternoon was filled with friendly competition, teamwork, and plenty of laughs, all in service of a great cause.

While Democrats secured the win for the second year in a row, the real highlight was the spirit of collaboration and shared commitment to strengthening our communities. Events like this remind us that, regardless of party lines, we can come together to support the important work of uplifting individuals and families across Connecticut.

The state is making $15 million available through the national settlement of the Volkswagen emissions scandal to support clean air projects across Connecticut. Eligible projects must reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions, key contributors to smog, and help advance the state’s efforts to combat air pollution.

Older diesel engines are a major source of nitrogen oxide, which is linked to asthma, lung damage, and other serious health conditions, with children particularly at risk. Funding will prioritize projects that replace, repower, or retrofit aging diesel-powered vehicles and non-road equipment, significantly reducing harmful emissions.

Organizations interested in applying for grants can learn more through the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP). DEEP will also host an informational webinar on Tuesday, April 21 at 1:00 p.m. to review the application process and provide guidance. Proposals must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. on June 11. Click here to register for the webinar.

Click here for more information on the VW settlement.

April is recognized as ABLE to Save Month in Connecticut, a time to raise awareness about financial empowerment for individuals with disabilities. The ABLE (Achieving a Better Life Experience) program allows eligible individuals to establish tax-advantaged savings accounts that support greater independence and long-term financial security.

Recent expansions have broadened access to the program, making thousands more residents, including veterans, eligible by increasing the disability onset age to 46. ABLE accounts allow individuals to save more than $20,000 annually without jeopardizing eligibility for critical federal benefits such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Medicaid, providing a vital pathway to stability, opportunity, and self-sufficiency.

Click here for more information on eligibility requirements and to enroll.

This is a time for advocates, survivors, their loved ones, and the broader community to come together to speak openly about sexual violence by supporting survivors, raising awareness, deepening understanding, and identifying effective strategies and resources to prevent it.

If you need support, The Connecticut Alliance to end Sexual Violence offers a 24-hour toll-free hotline, call 1-888-999-5545 (English) or
1-888-568-8332 (Spanish).

Click here for a full list of programs that are offered at the library during school vacation week.