Benefits Bus Coming To Regional Help Fair

SOUTHBURY — Do you need help or know someone who does anywhere in the region? Are you, a neighbor, a relative, or a co-worker struggling in this economy?

Tough times are posing many challenges for an increasing number of people of all ages. The area’s first Community Resources Expo will bring together dozens of social service providers to answer questions, offer guidance on state and federal programs, and screen for many different kinds of benefits.

This free expo takes place Monday, June 15, from 10 am to 2 pm at the Jewish Federation, 444 Main Street North.

Professionals from many local agencies will be on hand to assist adults of any age who are looking for answers and help. They can learn about or get screened for state and federal benefits if they are having trouble putting food on the table; paying for medicine; unemployed or underemployed; living on fixed incomes; elderly and frail; uninsured; facing eviction or foreclosure; needing care for someone with Alzheimer’s; unable to pay high utility bills, etc.

Participants include United Way’s Infoline 211, the Department of Social Services, Connecticut Community Care, CT Association for Human Services, New Opportunities, Connecticut Legal Services, the Western CT Area Agency on Aging, Independence Northwest and the Alzheimer’s Association. Other agencies will also have exhibits and information.

The Department of Social Services Bus, equipped with four computer stations and counselors, will also screen people of all ages for benefits including food stamps, ConnPACE, etc. Preregistration is required for those 30 minute appointments.

For more information about the Community Resources Expo or to register for the DSS Bus screening, call Debby Horowitz at 267-3177, extension 105. This free event is open to the public and is sponsored by Brownstein Jewish Family Service.