Breast Cancer Awareness, and more

October 10, 2025



 

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Dear Neighbor,

Happy Friday!

In this week's eblast, you can read about DEA Takeback Day, the volunteer income tax assistance program, and more. You can click the links below to navigate between sections.
 
Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Each October, we bring awareness and honor the millions of lives affected by breast cancer. Throughout the month, we stress the importance of mammograms as the best way to screen for breast cancer, which is the second most common cancer among women. 

One in eight women in the United States will get breast cancer. More than 40,000 women die from breast cancer in the U.S. each year.

Let us stand with survivors, honor those we've lost, and continue fighting for a cure.  
 
National Disability Employment Awareness Month

This year marks the 80th anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month. Governor Ned Lamont has officially proclaimed October 2025 as Disability Employment Awareness Month in Connecticut, recognizing the contributions and achievements of residents with disabilities in the workplace.

Connecticut is a state that values inclusion and remains committed to fostering a workforce where individuals of all abilities are welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed. Inclusive employment benefits both employers and employees which in turn enriches the workplace and strengthens the community.

The Connecticut Department of Aging and Disability Services plays a crucial role in helping individuals with disabilities find, maintain, and advance in meaningful employment. The department helps ensure everyone has the opportunity to thrive in the workplace. Assistance for jobseekers with disabilities is available virtually and in-person, below are links to services:

As we celebrate this month, let’s continue working together to build a more inclusive and equitable future for all.
 
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program

Below is a message from the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program:

Ever think about how committing 4 hours a week can make a huge impact in someone's life?

That’s what becoming a Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) can do - the chance to help struggling low-income families of New Haven file their state and federal income tax returns, while assuring they claim the Earned Income Tax Credits or other tax credits they might be entitled.

Cited as being the most effective anti-poverty program - the EITC can boost a refund, in some cases more than doubling what the taxpayer would receive - making it possible to pay the rent, a heating bill, get an education, pay medical insurance premiums or better still - save something.

VITA volunteers train and certify as tax preparers under IRS sponsored web-based and hard copy materials beginning in December then commit to a schedule of weekly volunteer hours at one of the free tax preparation VITA clinics around New Haven. Clinics begin operations in mid-January and run through till April 15, 2026.

Please consider joining with some very wonderful people who already volunteer and be a part of a great experience. Contact: https://www.irs.gov/individuals/irs-tax volunteers
 
DEA Takeback Day

The drug epidemic in the United States is a clear and present public health, public safety, and national security threat. Too often, unused prescription drugs find their way into the wrong hands. When they do - it has dangerous and often tragic consequences. 

You can help fight that epidemic by participating in DEA Takeback Day. It's an opportunity for anyone to remove unneeded medications from their homes, preventing medication misuse and opioid addiction.

On October 25th, from 10 am to 2 pm, you can turn in excess drugs at dozens of collection site locations across the state. You can find details on the drop-off process and locations by using the DEA Collection Site Locator. Click here to find the closest site to you and for more info. 
 
CT Pizza Trail

Connecticut has been staking its claim as the Pizza Capital of the United States for years, and now with the launch of the Connecticut Pizza Trail, pizza lovers finally have a curated way to explore the state’s legendary slices.

The trail features the Top 100 pizzerias across the state, chosen by public vote, and mapped out to help guide your journey. From the coal-fired classics of New Haven to hidden gems in smaller towns, the trail celebrates the diversity and quality of Connecticut’s pizza scene.

The Pizza Trail offers a one-of-a-kind way to taste your way across a state that’s serious about its pizza.

Click here for a full guide to the trail and to download the map.
 

Sincerely,

Juan Candelaria
State Representative

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