Social Services Department
896-2375
896-2379 - Fax
375 Hartford Turnpike, Rm. 117
Paula Claydon, Director
Social Services Mission Statement
The Department's Mission is to promote social well-being, self sufficiency and quality of life. The Department provides a variety of social service programs for its residents. Some of these programs include crisis intervention and case management services, benefits counseling and advocacy, limited emergency assistance, emergency fuel and utility assistance, intake site for energy assistance applications, budget counseling, recreational fee waiver for summer camp programs, and information and referral.
Energy Assistance
The Department is presently taking Energy Assistance applications for its residents. The program is a federally funded program that helps low to moderate income individuals and families with heating costs during the winter months. Eligibility for the program is based on income and liquid assets. For example, the gross yearly income limit for a family of 4 is $56,292.60. The liquid asset limit (bank accounts, stocks, bonds etc.) is $7,000 for a renter and $10,000 for a homeowner. If a household is over the asset limit, they may still be eligible. The amount over the asset limit is added to their income and if their income is below the guidelines, the household is eligible. The basic benefit amount ranges from $925 to $625 depending on income levels. For households that heat with deliverable fuels, they are also eligible for additional help. The first date for delivery is 11/3/08. For more information, please contact Social Services Department at 896-2375.
Operation Fuel
Operation Fuel has been awarded a State grant to assist higher income residents with their heating expenses. The program will serve households whose income is between 61% and 100% of the state median household income. For example, the income limit for a family of 4 is $93,821. Also, there will be an asset test and a risk assessment. Once more information is available, the Department will update this website. The Department participates in Operation Fuel and will be taking the applications for the new program. The start date is not available at this time.
UTILITY SHUT OFFS
Low income customers who are coded hardship for winter protection cannot have their utility service terminated between November 1st and May 1st due to non-payment. Last year, the Governor and the Legislature passed legislation extending the date for shut offs for these customers from April 15th to May 1st. The increased rates for electricity have made it very difficult for low income families to keep current with their electric bills. The Department expects an increase in the number of requests to the fuel bank. If you wish to donate, please send a check payable to Tri-Town Fuel Bank, c/o Vernon Social Services, 375 Hartford Tpk. Room 117, Vernon, CT 06066. For more information, call 896-2375.
CHOICES Counselor
The Department has two CHOICES counselors who have been trained and certified by North Central Agency on Aging. CHOICES counselors help older adults understand and exercise their rights, receive benefits they are entitled to, and make informed choices about quality of life issues. CHOICES counselors also provide free information and assistance about Medicare options, Medicare Supplemental Insurance (Medigap), Medicare Part D (Prescription coverage) and other state and federal programs. CHOICES counselors DO NOT sell insurance.
