Resources

Connect To Solutions

Whether you are looking for answers to Frequently Asked Questions or looking to connect with local and State Resources, Caregiver's Home Solutions has the resources to fulfill all of your needs!  Below you will find some of the common questions we get asked, followed by a list of aging- and disability-related resources to connect you or a loved one with the supports you need to live a happy, healthy, independent life!

Caregiver's Home Solutions

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Non-medical home care refers to a type of caregiving service provided to individuals who need assistance with daily living activities but do not require medical attention. This type of care is often provided in the comfort of the client's home and aims to help them maintain their independence and quality of life.

Caregiver’s Home Solutions services include assistance with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs) such as bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, meal preparation, medication reminders, light housekeeping, transportation for errands or appointments, companionship, and support with other non-medical needs.

You may consider non-medical home care if your loved one is experiencing difficulty in performing daily activities, struggling with mobility, feeling socially isolated, or if family caregivers need additional support to balance their responsibilities.  Call us at (203) 870-9850 if you'd like to discuss your loved one's needs and the potential of non-medical home care.

Caregivers are matched with clients based on their specific needs, preferences, and compatibility. The agency will consider factors such as the client's care requirements, personality, and language preferences when making the match, as well as the Caregiver’s knowledge, skills and experience.

The costs of non-medical home care services can vary depending on factors such as insurance coverage, the Level of Care required, and the number of hours of care needed. Caregiver’s Home Solutions can help you explore pricing and payment options before starting services.

While some long-term care insurance policies may cover non-medical home care, many access home care services through Medicaid-funded long-term care programs like the Connecticut Home Care Program for Elders and Personal Care Attendant Waiver program.  Contact 2-1-1 and ask to be connected to your local Area Agency on Aging for more information or to apply for services.

No, non-medical caregivers are not allowed to administer medications or medical treatments. Only licensed medical professionals, such as nurses, are permitted to administer medications or perform medical procedures such as changing a bandage, administering an enema, etc.

Our Caregiver's can remind you to take your medication, but they can not dispense it to you and they can not assist with insulin injections, wound care or any other medical treatments.

Any caregiver with a valid license and insured vehicle may drive clients to and from Doctor's appointments, grocery shopping or other errands within the local community up to twice a week, either using their own vehicle or the client's vehicle.  If you have appointments or errands outside your local community you will have to make other travel arrangements.

To ensure the safety of the client, Caregiver’s Home Solutions conducts home assessments to identify potential hazards and implement appropriate safety measures. Caregivers are trained to assist clients safely and know how to respond in case of emergencies.

Our Caregivers are available 24 hours a day if you are paying for 24-hour hourly care.  No hourly caregiver shall work more than a twelve hour shift so that caregivers are alert and able to assist clients at a moment’s notice.

Live-In caregivers require eight hours of sleep per night (five uninterrupted hours), and are entitled to periodic breaks throughout the day.

We also offer Overnight Services to assist clients who are awake during the overnight hours.

Yes, non-medical home care services can be provided in assisted living facilities or nursing homes to supplement the care provided by the facility.

Caregiver’s Home Solutions always has a contingency plan in place for such situations. They will notify the client or their family about the issue and arrange for a substitute caregiver to cover the scheduled visit if desired.

Caregiver’s Home Solutions has specific protocols in place to handle emergencies. Caregivers are trained to assess the situation, take appropriate action, and contact the necessary authorities or medical professionals if needed.

All of our caregivers meet the following qualifications:

  • Subjected to multiple nationwide background checks
  • Fully insured and bonded
  • Covered by additional auto insurance which allows them to drive your car or their own
  • Directly employed by us so you needn’t worry about taxes, benefits, and worker’s compensation insurance
  • Dependable, compassionate, and carefully matched to each care recipient’s needs

We have a team of Client Care Specialists in the field, visiting client homes while our caregivers are working. Often unannounced, their surprise visits help ensure each care plan is implemented properly and adapted to your changing needs.

Caregiver’s Home Solutions is licensed and bonded within the State of Connecticut, and all caregivers are employees of CHS.

Yes, non-medical home care services can be provided on a temporary or short-term basis, such as during recovery from an illness or after a hospital stay.

We encourage open communication between clients’ families and caregivers. They may use various methods such as phone calls, text messages, emails, or a dedicated online platform for updates and coordination.

If changes are required in the care plan contact your Care Manager and they will schedule a home visit to discuss your concerns. They will assess your new needs and adjust the care plan accordingly.

Yes, we offer respite care services to provide family caregivers with temporary relief and time off.

In some cases, non-medical home care services may be tax-deductible if they are considered necessary medical expenses. It's essential to consult with a tax professional to determine eligibility and specific deductions.

Caregiver's Home Solutions is always hiring qualified caregivers to join our professional and compassionate team!  Please visit our Careers page and fill out an application now!

Additional Resources

WARNING:  All of these links are to external sites outside the control of Caregiver's Home Solutions and our organization bears no responsibility for the content of those sites or the validity of any of the following links.

KEY CONNECTICUT & NATIONAL RESOURCES

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2-1-1 CT

2-1-1 is a free, confidential information and referral service that connects people to essential health and human services 24 hours a day, seven days a week online and over the phone.

2-1-1 is fully certified in crisis intervention by the American Association of Suicidology and is certified by The Alliance of Information and Referral Systems (AIRS). AIRS is the professional association for over 1,200 community Information and Referral (I&R) providers.

My Place CT

MyPlaceCT.org is a free, web-based resource designed to help older adults and people with disabilities live at home or in the community with optimal independence, health and well-being.  It helps people explore their options and features current information on a wide range of services and supports – all in one place.

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Social Security Administration (SSA)

Determine if you are eligible for Social Security benefits including Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). While not a requirement, it is advisable that an application for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) from the Social Security Administration be made prior to application for Medicaid (Title 19) from the Department of Social Services. Applying for SSI serves to document the disability for Medicaid ( Title 19) and thus expedites the process.

CT Department of Social Services (DSS)

Apply for Medicaid (Title 19), Long-Term Supports & Services (LTSS), SNAP (food stamps), Cash Assistance (TANF) and more.  If you are applying for Medical Assistance, Food Assistance, or Cash Assistance, you must give information that proves citizenship or alien status.  Information about the people in your home will be used to help the Department of Social Services (DSS) determine if you are eligible to receive benefits. If you do not have this information, or you do not provide it, your application could be denied. You will receive more information on what proofs are needed to complete your application.

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CT Bureau of Rehabilitation Services (BRS)

The Bureau of Rehabilitation Services (BRS) is Connecticut's vocational rehabilitation program. They help individuals with disability to prepare for, enter and maintain competitive employment through a wide range of services that best fit the needs of the individual and help them to be successful in overcoming dependence on disability cash benefits through competitive employment.

CT Department of Developmental Services (DDS)

The mission of the Department of Developmental Services is to partner with the individuals they support and their families, to support lifelong planning and to join with others to create and promote meaningful opportunities for individuals to fully participate as valued members of their communities.  DDS provides the following programs and services to individuals with any type of Developmental Disability:  Case Management, Family Support (For people who live with their families), Community Living Services, Regional Centers, Southbury Training School, Employment and Day Services, Health and Clinical Services, Access to Services, Provider Information for Families, Transportation

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CT State Department of Aging and Disability

The CT Department of Aging and Disability Services mission is maximizing opportunities for the independence and well-being of people with disabilities and older adults in Connecticut.  They do this by delivering aging and disability services responsive to the needs of Connecticut citizens; Providing leadership on aging and disability issues statewide; Providing and coordinate aging and disability programs and services in the areas of employment, education, independent living, accessibility and advocacy; Advocating for the rights of Connecticut residents with disabilities and older adults; and serving as a resource on aging and disability issues at the state level.

CT DSS Protective Services for the Elderly

Connecticut has a coordinated system to support the safety and well-being of elders who may be subject to various forms of maltreatment.  This system includes the Protective Services for the Elderly (PSE) program, law enforcement, health and human services, and the court system.  The PSE program is designed to safeguard people 60 years and older from physical, mental and emotional abuse, neglect (including self-neglect), abandonment and/or financial abuse and exploitation.

To make a report, call Protective Services for the Elderly at DSS during business hours toll-free line at 888-385-4225, or after business hours or holidays call 2-1-1.

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American Association of Retired Persons (AARP)

American Association of Retired Persons -Founded in 1958 by retired California educator, Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus, AARP (formerly known as the American Association of Retired Persons) today represents more than 34 million members. The site provides national and local information on senior issues.

Alzheimer's Association

The Alzheimer’s Association, a national network of chapters, is the largest national voluntary health organization committed to finding a cure for Alzheimer’s and helping those affected by the disease.  The Alzheimer's Association leads the way to end Alzheimer's and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Through many initiatives and worldwide reach, the Alzheimer’s Association leads the charge in Alzheimer’s care, support, research and advocacy and is committed to providing all communities with resources and education.

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USAging

USAging is the national association representing and supporting the network of Area Agencies on Aging and advocating for the Title VI Native American Aging Programs. Our members help older adults and people with disabilities throughout the United States live with optimal health, well-being, independence and dignity in their homes and communities.

USAging and our members work to improve the quality of life and health of older adults and people with disabilities, including supporting people with chronic illness, people living with dementia, family caregivers and others who want to age well at home and in the community. Together, we are ensuring that all people can age well

Aging CT

AgingCT is a statewide network of coordinated information, supports, and services to help Connecticut navigate their aging journey based on their care setting, preferences, and needs.  AgingCT connects Connecticut’s older and vulnerable adults to the long-term care services and supports needed to maximize independence and promote positive health outcomes.

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Administration for Community Living (ACL)

The Administration for Community Living provides leadership and support for aging service providers. Their mission is to maximize the independence, well-being, and health of older adults, people with disabilities across the lifespan, and their families and caregivers.

National Council on Aging BenefitsCheckup

The National Council on the Aging created BenefitsCheckUp to help older adults to quickly identify programs that may improve the quality of their lives. Family and friends can also obtain facts about benefits that their loved ones may qualify for. Chances are, you will be surprised to learn what benefits are available to you, regardless of your income.

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Medicare.gov the official US government site
Medicare.gov

This website provides tools to find information on Medigap policies, Medicare plans, news and updates, health information, fraud and abuse, helpful contacts, and assistance in choosing a nursing home. There is also information specifically created to help family caregivers find resources and information for their loved ones.

AdvancingStates

ADvancing States was founded in 1964 under the name National Association of State Units on Aging (NASUA).  In 2019, the association changed its name to ADvancing States.  Today, ADvancing States represents the nation’s 56 state and territorial agencies on aging and disabilities and long-term services and supports directors.

The mission of the Association is to advance social, health, and economic policies responsive to the needs of a diverse aging population and to enhance the capacity of its membership to promote the rights, dignity and independence of, and expand opportunities and resources for, current and future generations of older persons, adults with disabilities and their families

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National Center on Elder Abuse

The National Center on Elder Abuse serves as a resource center dedicated to the prevention of elder mistreatment.  Among resources on the redesigned website, users will find information about how to find help if you are worried about a senior in your community; definitions, signs, and risks of elder mistreatment; and resources for caregivers.

National Institute on Aging

The National Institute on Aging (NIA) is one of the centers of the National Institute on Health (NIH) and has been at the forefront of the Nation's research activities dedicated to understanding the nature of aging, supporting the health and wellbeing of older adults, and extending healthy, active years of life for more people. This link is to an alphabetical listing of a variety of aging topics and informative research-based fact sheets from the National Institute on Aging.

The mission of the Association is to advance social, health, and economic policies responsive to the needs of a diverse aging population and to enhance the capacity of its membership to promote the rights, dignity and independence of, and expand opportunities and resources for, current and future generations of older persons, adults with disabilities and their families

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PhRMA.org

The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) represents the country's leading research-based pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, which are devoted to inventing medicines that allow patients to live longer, healthier, happier, and more productive lives. Investing more than $26 billion in 2000 in discovering and developing new medicines, PhRMA companies are leading the way in the search for new cures.

Area Agencies on Aging Resources

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Agency on Aging of South Central CT (AOASCC)

The Agency on Aging of South Central Connecticut (AOASCC) works with older adults, individuals with disabilities and caregivers in the greater New Haven and lower valley areas of Connecticut.  AOASCC helps those looking for services and information that will help them continue to live safely at home and will be your guide through the often confusing maze of available benefit programs, insurance options and community services.

Southwestern Connecticut Agency on Aging (SWCAA)

The Southwestern Connecticut Agency on Aging (SWCAA) is where you turn when you need unbiased, accurate information to help meet the challenges of aging and disability in the community.  Grants support services such as home delivered meals, in-home care, legal, health, adult day care, transportation, senior centers, outreach and social support.  SWCAA is also an “Access Agency”, under contract with the State of Connecticut, Department of Social Services, to provide care management to Medicaid clients who prefer to receive home and community-based services rather than institutional care.

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Western CT Area Agency on Aging (WCAAA)

WCAAA provides services to seniors and individuals with disabilities such as congregate and home delivered meals, legal, chore, health, adult day care/respite, transportation, veterans outreach, senior centers, benefits outreach and health screenings for seniors in the 41 town western CT area.  The Agency administers the statewide Alzheimer Respite Care Program, as well as the following programs with federal funding: National Family Caregiver Support, Money Follows the Person, Live Well, Congregate Housing Service, a Veteran's Program, the Medicare focused CHOICES and SMP (Medicare Fraud) programs and through a contract with the local housing Authorities, the Resident Service Coordination Project.  As  a State of Connecticut contractor, we administer the Connecticut Home Care Program for Elders for Waterbury. 

Connecticut Community Care Inc. (CCCI)

Connecticut Community Care Inc. (CCCI) is the Agency on Aging for Central and Northern Connecticut, where care managers serve as ambassadors and advocates in support of our mission to serve older individuals and those with disabilities with pride, dignity and respect. Our corporators represent many aspects of community and business life throughout Connecticut and offer significant experience and counsel to our organization.

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Senior Resources

Senior Resources is a strong voice for eastern Connecticut’s aging population. Through our involvement at the federal, state and local level we work to enhance the quality of life for older persons. In addition to advocating legislatively, our continuing work with volunteer and citizen groups increases public awareness of senior issues.

Advocacy Resources

Access Independence (AI)

Access Independence (AI) is a Center for Independent Living (CIL) which provides Advocacy, Peer Support, Information and Referral, Youth Transition and Community Advocacy Services to help people with disabilities overcome barriers to full inclusion in community living.  One of five CILs in Connecticut, AI is located in Stratford and serves the following towns in coastal Fairfield County: Bridgeport, Darien, Easton, Fairfield, Greenwich, Monroe, New Canaan, Norwalk, Stamford, Stratford, Trumbull, Weston, Westport, Wilton

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Center for Disability Rights (CDR)

Center for Disability Rights (CDR) is a Center for Independent Living (CIL) which provides Advocacy, Peer Support, Information and Referral, Youth Transition and Community Advocacy Services to help people with disabilities overcome barriers to full inclusion in community living.  One of five CILs in Connecticut, CDR is located in West Haven and serves West Haven, Milford, Orange, Woodbridge, Clinton and Old Saybrook.

Independence Northwest (IN)

Independence Northwest (IN) is a Center for Independent Living (CIL) which provides Advocacy, Peer Support, Information and Referral, Youth Transition and Community Advocacy Services to help people with disabilities overcome barriers to full inclusion in community living.  One of five CILs in Connecticut, IN is located in Naugatuck and serves the following Connecticut towns: Barkhamsted, Beacon Falls, Bethel, Bethlehem, Bridgewater, Brookfield, Canaan, Cheshire, Colebrook, Cornwall, Danbury, Goshen, Hartland, Harwinton, Kent, Litchfield, Middlebury, Morris, Naugatuck, New Fairfield, New Hartford, New Milford, Newtown, Norfolk, North Canaan, Oxford, Prospect, Redding, Ridgefield, Roxbury, Salisbury, Sharon, Sherman, Southbury, Thomaston, Torrington, Warren, Washington, Waterbury, Watertown, Winchester, Wolcott, Woodbury

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Independence Unlimited (IU)

Independence Unlimited envisions a society that, by design and commitment, is barrier free and promotes the rights, value, and dignity of individuals with disabilities as fully participating in self directing their lives. The mission of Independence Unlimited is to assist individuals with disabilities in the Greater Hartford Area to achieve their goals and dreams.

Disabilities Network of Eastern Connecticut (DNEC)

The Disabilities Network of Eastern Connecticut (DNEC) is a Center for Independent Living, serving persons of all ages and all disability types who reside in Eastern Connecticut. DNEC utilizes peer mentoring, self-advocacy and independent living skills training to assist individuals with disabilities to re-enter or remain in the community and to make meaningful life choices.

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CT Commission on Women, Children and Seniors

The Commission on Women, Children and Seniors (CWCS) is a non-partisan arm of the Connecticut General Assembly. As staff to the legislature, the CWCS researches best practices, coordinates stakeholders, and promotes public policies that are in the best interest of Connecticut’s underserved and underrepresented women, children, and older adults.

CT Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program

The Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program works to improve the quality of life and quality of care of Connecticut residents living in long term care facilities.  Ombudsman activity is performed on behalf of, and at the direction of residents. The Ombudsman Program responds to, and investigates complaints brought forward by residents, family members, and/or other individuals acting on their behalf and all communication is held in strict confidence.  The Program brings residents to the forefront to voice their concerns directly to public officials and supports residents in their quest to shape their own legislative agenda.  The Ombudsman Program offers information and consultation to consumers and providers, monitors state and federal laws and regulations, and makes recommendations for improvements.

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Center for Medicare Advocacy

The Center for Medicare Advocacy, Inc. is a private, non-profit organization that provides education, advocacy, and legal assistance to help elders and people with disabilities obtain necessary healthcare. We focus on the needs of Medicare beneficiaries, people with chronic conditions, and those in need of long-term care. The organization is involved in education, training, and litigation activities of importance to Medicare beneficiaries nationwide.

The Center for Social Gerontology

The Center for Social Gerontology, Inc. (TCSG) - since its inception in 1972, has been a non-profit research, training and social policy organization dedicated to promoting the individual autonomy of older persons and advancing their well-being in society. TCSG has pursued this goal through a wide variety of projects, including serving since 1985 as an Administration on Aging-funded National Support Center in Law & Aging.

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Connecticut Resources

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State of Connecticut Website (CT.gov)

State of CT Homepage provides information on CT’s state government, people, agencies, the legislature and answers questions of special interest on education, commerce, tourism, licenses/permits, and links to towns and cities.

CT Area Agencies on Aging

Connecticut Area Agencies on Aging- The five Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) in CT are private, not-for-profit corporations established in CT in 1974 to provide leadership and resources to meet the needs of the rapidly growing elderly population.  They administer the Connecticut Home Care Program for Elders, Personal Care Attendent Waiver and provide other aging- and disability-related services.

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CT Fair Housing Center

The mission of the Connecticut Fair Housing Center is to ensure that all people have equal access to housing opportunities in Connecticut, free from discrimination.

In support of our mission, the Center conducts statewide education and outreach to ensure residents understand their fair housing rights and works with state and local governments, housing professionals, and others to promote compliance with federal and state fair housing laws.

CT Library for Accessible Books

The Connecticut Library for Accessible Books (CT LAB), formerly the Connecticut State Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (LBPH), is a network library of the Library of Congress’ National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled (NLS).  CT LAB lends books and magazines in audio and braille formats, for free, to any Connecticut resident who is unable to read regular print due to a visual, reading, or physical disability.

Readers register with CT LAB and materials are delivered to individuals via U.S. mail or are downloaded by patrons to their personal computers and mobile devices.  The NLS collection includes nonfiction, fiction, bestsellers, magazines, and the NLS music section.  Titles are available in a variety of world languages.  The collection is intended to appeal to patrons of all ages. 

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CT Coalition Against Domestic Violence

CT Coalition Against Domestic Violence - is a membership organization whose purpose is to work together to end domestic violence by advocating for victims and changing the social conditions, beliefs, and social actions that perpetuate abuse against victims of domestic violence.  CCADV is a statewide network of community-based programs providing shelter, support, and advocacy to victims of domestic violence. CCADV provides program coordination and skills training to assist member programs to develop, enhance, and improve their programs, policies, and services.

UConn Health Services Library

In addition to links to resources for Connecticut health consumers and information about a free consumer health research service, the library also includes Resource Guides on Growing Older, Navigating the Health Care System, Caregiving, and Patient Advocacy.

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CT Tech Act Project

The Connecticut Tech Act Project (CTTAP) operates out of the State of Connecticut, Department of Aging and Disability Services (ADS). Our goal is to help individuals with disabilities of all ages and all disabilities, as well as family members, employers, educators and other professionals have access to Assistive Technology devices and services.

Our mission is to increase independence and improve the lives of individuals with disabilities through increased access to Assistive Technology for work, school and community living.

MTM

MTM is a limited transportation benefit that is provided to eligible Medicaid members in Connecticut who have no other way of getting to their medical, behavioral health or dental appointments.

Legal Resources

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CT Legal Services

Connecticut Legal Services is a not-for-profit law firm dedicated to representing, advising, and educating low-income individuals and families in matters relating principally to civil law and thereby helping them secure the protections, privileges, benefits, rights, and opportunities this law provides. 

CT Law Help for Seniors

CTLawHelp.org was created to provide comprehensive, current information on elder law, government programs and legal assistance for residents of Connecticut age 60 and older.

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Greater Hartford Legal Aid

Greater Hartford Legal Assistance is a not-for-profit law firm whose staff helps clients with civil (not criminal) legal issues. They are advocates — primarily lawyers and paralegals — who know how to serve people who have little money.

New Haven Legal Assistance

Their mission is to provide high-quality legal services to individuals, families and groups in the greater New Haven area, including the lower Naugatuck Valley, who are unable to obtain legal services because of limited income, age, disability, discrimination and other barriers.

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Statewide Legal Services of CT

Statewide Legal Services of Connecticut (SLS) is a private, non-profit corporation dedicated to helping as many low-income people as possible to understand their civil (non-criminal) legal problems. They cooperate with other non-profit law firms and volunteer attorneys to provide a broad range of legal services to Connecticut's poor.

Other Resources

Connecticut Food Pantries

Find local pantries, soup kitchens, food shelves, food banks and other food help.  FoodPantries.org works hard to gather the best government and non profit subsidized food and grocery resources on the Internet.

Healthy Aging

Healthy Aging is a national ongoing health promotion designed to broaden awareness of the positive aspects of aging and to provide information and inspiration for adults, age 50+, to improve their physical, mental, social, and financial fitness. 

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Generations Online

Generations Online is aimed at the large population of older Americans who cannot afford or choose not to enroll in computer training or Internet training, Generations on Line is both a service for access and a product for learning. They provide specially programmed self-training software to senior centers, libraries, retirement homes, and other locations where older people congregate.