Jason Rojas

Dear Neighbor,

I hope this email finds you well. Below, you'll find updates on district resources and news. Please feel free to reach out to my office if you have any questions or concerns.

The topics covered in this e-newsletter are as follows:

• Community Resources
• This Week In Connecticut History
• Manchester Community Events and Information
• East Hartford Community Events and Information

Even though the Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies are still up in the air (and if Congress does vote on an extension, the vote wouldn't happen until mid-December), Access Health CT is available to answer any questions you may have as you shop for health and dental plans. 

Access Health CT call centers are open to help residents understand their options. If customers enroll on or before December 15, their coverage will commence on January 1, 2026. If they enroll between December 16 and January 15, 2026, their coverage will start February 1, 2026.

• AHCT offers free expert help online, in-person, and over the phone to help customers with the process of enrolling.
• 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.
• There is also a list of Certified Brokers available, and it is free to work with a broker.  They are trained to help customers find a plan.
• Customers can also contact the AHCT call center at 1-855-805-4325 with questions. Help is available in over 100 languages.

The Generation Power CT (GPCT) Emergency Energy Assistance Program provides a one-time grant of up to $500 to help eligible Connecticut households with electric, gas, or fuel expenses.

Increasing energy costs are a challenge for many in the state. Through this program, GPCT has helped to 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. Each income-eligible household that receives a GPCT Energy Assistance Award will receive up to $500 toward a future fuel delivery or toward a past-due utility bill. 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. GPCT has upcoming Energy Assistance Application Cycles: 

• January 2-10
• March 2-10  

To learn more about eligibility requirements and application materials, go to: https://gpct.org/gethelp/

Today in 1898, after two relentless days of wind and snow,  a massive storm that became known as The Portland Gale finally moved off the Connecticut shoreline, but not before bringing the state to a stand-still. The storm had formed on November 26th, when two large storms intersected over New York state, then marched across New England and along the eastern seaboard, paralyzing land transportation and wrecking over a hundred ships.  

The S.S. Portland, a luxury coastal steamship  which gave the storm its name, was the worst of the storm’s casualties. Crowded with post-Thanksgiving passengers heading for Portland from Boston, all 193 persons aboard were lost when the vessel sank off Cape Cod. Two of the fatalities, Charles Tinkham of Hartford and Frederick Munn of Suffield, were Connecticans. Ironically, Munn was going to Portland attend a funeral. In total, the storm left nearly 400 New Englanders dead. 

While the Gale killed relatively few Connecticans, it most severely tested the state’s transportation systems.  Heavy snow fell nonstop for two days, producing records in New Haven and New London that stand to this day.  Although some locations recovered relatively quickly, other areas were  paralyzed, with roads and railway lines completely blocked and trolley traffic suspended. The state’s trolley companies were the worse hit by the high drifts. New Britain’s Central Railway & Electric Company called the gale “the most severe storm” the company had ever had to deal with.  

Because both the state and many individual transportation companies lacked the capacity to clear the transportation routes, thousands of individuals were paid to assist in the snow removal. Mary Noyes, a resident of Stonington recorded the travel difficulties in her diary.  “Nov. 28 -Clear this morning but such high banks. Mr. Lord began to clear the roads but did not get but a little way in all day.”  Five days later, on December 3rd, the roads were still barely passable. Noyes wrote, “I can’t say but that I have taken one wild ride. There was hardly a place on the road where a team (of horses) could pass one another.  The snow banks were for a long distance a foot above the wagon wheel.  I was obliged to go through the lots (pastures, not the roads) much of the way.”

All portions of the state were  hard-hit by the storm.  Some towns such as Torrington and Winsted were  completely isolated for days. Ultimately, the transportation paralysis produced by The Portland Gale became a stimulus helping the state improve transportation planning and preparation for future storms.

Researched and Written by Luke Villani.

https://www.easthartfordct.gov/residents
 
Town Newsletters
Pulse of East Hartford     
East Hartford Public Schools
East Hartford Works

The African American and Black Affairs Council is an organization that empowers, supports and advocates for the Black community in Manchester, CT.

When

• Monday, December 01, 2025 | 06:00 PM - 07:30 PM
• Wednesday, December 17, 2025 | 06:00 PM - 07:30 PM
• Monday, January 05, 2026 | 06:00 PM - 07:30 PM
• Wednesday, January 21, 2026 | 06:00 PM - 07:30 PM
• Monday, February 02, 2026 | 06:00 PM - 07:30 PM

The Manchester Youth Commission is requesting proposals for Mini Grants of up to $1000 per application to Manchester community groups which are either led by, or intended to benefit, youth in Manchester. Qualifying candidates must plan to facilitate a project or program which fulfills one of three categories: Out of School Time/After School Initiatives, Service-Learning Initiatives, and Arts and Culture Initiatives. Grant money may not be used for religious instruction or materials, capital expenses, or donations to other organizations.

Applications for the Manchester Youth Commission Mini Grant Program are available online and must be completed and received by the Manchester Youth Services Bureau by no later than 11:59PM on December 5th, 2025. A letter of support or recommendation is also required. Grant recipients whose proposals have been selected for funding will be notified by the end of January. Decisions will be based on recommendations of the Manchester Youth Commission Philanthropy Committee and the availability of funds. Applying does not guarantee selection. Getting funded one year does not guarantee funding another year.

Apply Today

For additional information, please contact Samantha Bell at the Manchester Youth Service Bureau at (959) 221-0780, or e-mail sbell@manchesterct.gov.

The Town of East Hartford, East Hartford Public Library, the East Hartford Beautification Commission and East Hartford Parks and Recreation invite you to the annual 2025 East Hartford Holiday Fest from December 5 through December 8.

The four-day festival consists of a wide variety of fun events ranging between crafts and book sales, carol signing and Christmas Fair as well as the long-awaited visit from Santa. The events cater to all ages, children and adults alike. Most activities are free and open to the public.

Holiday Fest is is supported by many local civic, community and town organizations.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 5: Join us out on the Town Green as we come together to celebrate all of the amazing celebrations that happen during December!

Our Holiday Market starts at 4:00 PM and will feature vendors, food trucks, free kids crafts (while supplies last), an ice sculpture, free balloon animals, all while DJ Jimmy Jams keeps the holiday tunes playing!

• Around 5:45 PM, the Double A Dance Academy will be doing a holiday performance to help us kick off our Annual Tree Lighting!
• At 6:30 PM, Santa will arrive on his trusty firetruck and chose a child to light up our tree!

We will have caroling, selfies with Santa, and free Cocoa & Cookies for the kids! 

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6: Join us for our annual Swim with Santa event at the East Hartford Middle School pool! Come ready to get your picture taken with the big man himself! Listen to holiday music while swimming in the heated pool, playing with pool floats! Make a Christmas craft, enjoy some snacks, and more.

This event is free, with an unwrapped toy donation! Spaces are limited, so sign up today at EHParks.org. 
Please note: Children below age 7 or those children whose shoulders are not above the height of the water at the shallowest point of the pool must be accompanied in the water by a parent or guardian who must remain within arms reach at all times.

Registration is required. Please register only one adult member for the entire household. Each individual person does not need to register at EHParks.org. 
Questions? Feel free to call the office at 860-291-7160.
 

As we enter the winter and holiday season, the Town of East Hartford encourages all residents to take proactive steps to stay safe, warm, and prepared. Seasonal weather can be unpredictable, and early planning is key to protecting your home, family, and neighbors.

Winter Weather Preparedness
Residents are urged to:

• Inspect and service heating systems to ensure they are functioning efficiently before temperatures drop.
• Insulate exposed pipes to help prevent freezing and costly damage.
• Assemble a home emergency kit with essentials such as flashlights, fresh batteries, warm blankets, a first-aid kit, and non-perishable food and water for several days.
• Prepare your vehicle by checking tire pressure, antifreeze levels, and carrying essentials like an ice scraper, warm clothing, and a small shovel.
• Use generators safely by operating them outdoors and away from windows to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.
• Use portable heating appliances with caution by placing them on stable surfaces, keeping them at least three feet from anything flammable, following all manufacturer recommendations, and turning them off before leaving the room or going to sleep.
• Check on elderly neighbors or those who may need additional assistance during severe cold or storms. 

Stay Informed
Residents are reminded to stay up to date on:

• Winter storm alerts and advisories
• Parking bans and snow removal notices
• Emergency updates and local notifications
• Please follow the Town of East Hartford’s official website, social media channels, and local news outlets for reliable, real-time information.

Thanksgiving Safety Tips
As families and friends gather for Thanksgiving, please keep these safety considerations in
mind:

• Cooking Safety:
  • Never leave stoves, ovens, or fryers unattended.
  • Keep flammable materials such as towels and packaging away from heat sources.
  • Use turkey fryers outdoors on a flat, sturdy surface, and keep children and pets at a safe distance.
• Fire Prevention:
  • Test smoke alarms ahead of the holiday.
  • Keep a fire extinguisher nearby when cooking.
• Travel Safety:
  • Allow extra travel time during busy holiday traffic and changing weather conditions.
  • Ensure your vehicle is winter-ready before hitting the road.
• Food Safety:
  • Thaw turkeys safely in the refrigerator, never on counters.
  • Avoid cross-contamination by using separate cutting boards for raw meats.
  • Refrigerate leftovers within two hours of serving.

The Town of East Hartford thanks all residents for taking steps to keep our community safe and prepared. We wish everyone a warm, healthy, and safe winter and holiday season!

How to Check SNAP Balances:

• Call 1-888-328-2666
• Use MyDSS online
• Access the DSS SNAP work rules pre-screener. Starting December 1, 2025, all towns in Connecticut will now follow special SNAP work rules for adults. Please use this SNAP Work Rules Pre-screener to understand if these new rules apply to you.
• Access SNAP updates in multiple languages
• CT DSS SNAP presentation
• For other resources or eligibility questions, call 2-1-1 or visit 211ct.org for continuous updates

East Hartford Resources: 

• East Hartford Food Resource Calendar - English and Spanish
• Free Food for Seniors, Age 60+ (English)
• Free Food for Seniors, Age 60+ (Spanish)
• Find a Connecticut Foodshare Mobile Food Pantry in East Hartford or text the word foodshare to 85511 (standard text messaging rates may apply).
• Friendship Soup Kitchen Hot "Grab & Go" (New Covenant United Methodist Church located at 6 Church Street, Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 3:30pm to 5:30pm)
• East Hartford food pantries:
  • St. Isaac's Church - 1 Community Street
    Every other Wednesday
    4:30 PM- 5:30 PM
  • Town of East Hartford Food Pantry - 50 Chapman Place (Lower Level) 
    2nd and 4th Thursday 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM and 3rd Mopnday 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
  • St. Mary's Church – 30 Maplewood Avenue
    Tuesdays 11:30 AM - 12:30PM
    Fridays 11:30AM - 1:30PM
  • First United Food Pantry - 404 Prospect Street
    1st and 3rd Wednesdays 
    11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
  • South Congregational Church - 1301 Forbes Street
    Every other Tuesday
    12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
  • Crossroads Community Cathedral - 1492 Silver Lane
    Every other Wednesday
    9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
  • Charity Seventh Day Adventist Church - 1535 Forbes Street
    Every other Thursday
    10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
• East Hartford Youth and Social Services: (860) 291-7248

Additional Food Resources:

• Connecticut Foodshare

Other Support:

• Find financial support for utilities and rent, as you might need to spend more in food costs. For utilities assistance, please apply now here: Energy Assistance - Community Renewal Team and Generation Power CT

How You Can Help: 

• Donate Financially to the East Hartford Food Pantry
• Donate Food to the East Hartford Food Pantry

Leaves will be vacuumed Monday through Saturday through December 13th, 2025. 

The program consists of the vacuuming of leaves placed in piles on a tree belt. Leaves will be vacuumed along each street, weather permitting. The leaf collection program will commence on roads in the northwest corner of town in the area of Pitkin Street and then proceed north and east through the Burnham and Goodwin Street areas. Collection will proceed in a clockwise direction around town.

The schedule for leaf pickup can be found on the Department of Public Works Weekly Advisory Map and on the Town Facebook page.

CLICK HERE FOR WEEKLY LEAF MAP

The map will show completed areas as well as the areas where leaf collection is anticipated the following week. Residents should note that the map is tentative and dependent on the weather and the speed of collection and should not be considered a set collection schedule. Progress of the collection is weather-dependent and will be affected by rain or snow. Snowfall before mid-December may cause a suspension or cancellation of leaf collection. The map will be updated with address-specific collection information, such as whether collection has been completed or is anticipated by close of business on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

Residents, please look for leaf program lawn signs! Leaf collection lawn signs will be posted in neighborhoods to notify residents that curbside leaf pickup is coming, and to encourage raking to the tree belt and paper leaf bag collection.

Please do not block storm drains and catch basins with leaves to prevent flooding issues. 

Instructions for using the Weekly Advisory Map:

1. Enter your address in the search bar.
2. The Map will show your property- click on it to pull up the anticipated collection week.
3. To find out if leaf piles collection has already been completed in your area, please click on the road centerline, which will indicate if the street has been completed. Once leaf vacuuming in your neighborhood has been completed, if you still have additional leaf piles, we encourage to bag your leaves. We will make every attempt to come back around, weather permitting. In order to best accommodate for weather disruptions, bagged leaves will increase likelihood of pickup. 

Residents also have two (2) additional options for leaf disposal:
OPTION 1:  Curbside Brown Bag Collection for six (6) weeks

• Town crews will pick up leaves placed in biodegradable brown paper bags beginning November 3, 2025 through December 13, 2025 on your regular waste collection day, weather permitting.
• Please place your bagged leaves at the curb two (2) days before your regular trash and recycling pickup day.
• Leaves must be placed in biodegradable brown paper bags only. No grass clippings, branches or other waste items can be placed in the paper bags nor will the Town collect leaves in plastic bags. We will aim for leaf bags to be collected within two weeks of you placing them on the curb. If you bring them back inside, you may be at risk of missing the collection.
• *NEW* for 2025: Once your leaves are bagged and ready, you can submit a ticket through My East Hartford app or website. We will aim for leaf bags to be collected within the week, after the request is received.

OPTION 2:  Resident Transport to the Transfer Station for FREE Disposal

• Residents may bring their leaves to the Transfer Station on Ecology Drive:
  • Regularly scheduled transfer station hours:
    • Monday, Tuesday and Friday 7:15 a.m. to 2:35 p.m. (closed for lunch between 11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.)
    • First and third Saturday of the month from 8:00 a.m. to 1:45 p.m.
  • Additionally, the transfer station will be open for LEAF DROP-OFF ONLY on the following Saturdays: November 8, 22, 29, and December 13

Leaves in plastic bags will not be accepted.
For any additional information, please call Public Works Administration (860) 291-7374.