Susan Johnson

Do you need help paying off your student loans? The state opened its reimbursement program, and I'll break down how you can apply today.

A former UConn star joined my weekly radio show to showcase the impact sports can have on women. Please read below to learn how Debbie Baer Fiske is making a difference in Windham.

Here are the sections in today's email:

• Apply for Help With Student Loans
• Let's Talk About It: Windham Recreation
• Chime Scholarship Is Available
• Warming Centers Remain Open

Apply for Help With Student Loans

You can apply now for help with student loan payments made last year. The Connecticut Student Loan Reimbursement Program has opened a new round of grants to provide financial relief to eligible residents.  Eligible applicants may quality for reimbursement grants of up to $5,000 per year, with a maximum of $20,000 over four years. Each year, the program opens a new grant cycle to reimburse student loan payments made during the previous calendar year.

Click here to view eligibility requirements

You must submit an application online through the CT Scholars portal and upload the required documentation. CLICK HERE for step-by-step instructions. If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact the Connecticut Office of Higher Education at OHE.SLRP@ct.gov.

Let's Talk About It: Windham Recreation

We were thrilled to welcome Windham Recreation Director, Debbie Baer Fiske, on "Let's Talk About It," where she highlighted the towns' outstanding programs and the importance of National Girls & Women in Sports Day. Fiske, a former point guard for the UConn Huskies, knows firsthand the value of staying active and empowering young women through sports and recreation.

Fiske explained that National Girls & Women in Sports Day is a celebration of strength, confidence, and community. Last Sunday, girls and women of all ages gathered at the Windham Community Center for a day of fun and fitness, featuring a basketball clinic, Zumba, open swim, and more. Events like these provide a welcoming space for girls to develop skills and grow into future leaders.

She also shared details about the wide range of programs available at the Windham Community Center, including: Aqua Aerobics Drums Alive Zumba Our conversation also touched on Fiske's time at UConn, her journey beyond basketball, a coach's impact on an athlete's life, and much more. Click on the video below to listen to the show.

Debbie Baer Fiske talks about the importance of National Girls & Women in Sports Day.

Chime Scholarship Is Available

The Chime Scholars Foundation is taking applications for scholarships of up to $20,000 to students pursuing college degrees, apprenticeships, trade schools, and technical or workforce certifications. Applications are open through March 31. For more information and to apply, visit the Chime Scholars Foundation website at chime.com/about-us/chime-scholars-foundation.

Warming Centers Remain Open

The governor has extended the state’s Severe Cold Weather Protocol once again until noon on Sunday, February 15 as we continue to deal with frigid weather. This action means warming centers will remain open for our most vulnerable.

Windham Senior Center hours: 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. 1 Jillson Square Project Hope hours: 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 a.m. 872 Main Street Warm beverages and showers available

The protocol has been in effect since Friday, January 23. If you need a warm place to stay, visit 211ct.org or call 2-1-1 to find available locations. Transportation can be provided if necessary.