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Resource Directory

Brain Injury Resource Directory from BIAC for Connecticut Families.

Welcome to BIAC’s directory of Connecticut-based community resources, state and national organizations, and publications with important information related to brain injury education, prevention, and recovery. If you need further assistance, please give our helpline a call at 860-219-0291 to connect with a Brain Injury Specialist, or email general@biact.org.

Other Brain Injury Resources

Additional brain injury resources may assist survivors and their families across Connecticut, with links to each organization.

Domestic Violence HELPS Screening Tool

HELPS Screening Tool: Identifying Brain Injury Linked to Domestic Violence for Survivors and Providers.

HELPS-tool.pdf

Brain Injury Basics

Understanding the Different Definitions of Brain Injury

It is important to recognize that several definitions of brain injuries exist in current literature. The acquired brain injury definition is broader in scope and is often termed the “umbrella” definition as it includes traumatic brain injury.

What Is an Acquired Brain Injury (ABI)?

Acquired brain injuries are typically brain injuries occurring after birth but not related to degenerative diseases, or congenital or hereditary factors. They may cause temporary or permanent impairment(s). Impairments can include physical functions, cognition, and psychosocial behaviors.

Common Causes of Acquired Brain Injury

Causes of acquired brain injury can include, but are not limited to the following:

  • strokes
  • traumatic brain injury (TBI)
  • substance abuse
  • hypoxia (oxygen deprivation to the brain)
  • toxic exposures
  • infections
  • seizures
  • tumors

What Is a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)?

In basic terms, traumatic brain injuries are typically defined as blow or jolt to the head or body, or a penetrating head injury that disrupts brain function. It should be noted that not all blows and jolts to the head result in a TBI. It should also be noted that you don’t necessarily have to hit your head to sustain a brain injury. Impairments from this type of injury can be temporary or permanent.

Understanding TBI Severity: From Mild to Severe

The severity of a TBI may range from ‘mild’—a brief change of mental status or consciousness, to ‘severe’—an extended period of unconsciousness or memory loss after injury. Most TBI’s that occur each year are ‘mild’, commonly called concussions.

Common Causes of Traumatic Brain Injury

  • falls
  • motor vehicle crashes
  • struck by/against events
  • assaults
  • gunshot wounds
  • sports injuries
  • blasts
  • other injuries caused by trauma

How Traumatic Brain Injury Affects Thinking, Sensation, Language, and Emotion

TBI can cause a wide range of functional short- or long-term changes affecting thinking, sensation, language, or emotions.

  • Thinking (i.e., memory and reasoning)
  • Sensation (i.e., touch, taste, and smell)
  • Language (i.e., communication, expression, and understanding); and
  • Emotion (i.e., depression, anxiety, personality changes, aggression, acting out, and social inappropriateness).

Long-Term Health Risks Associated with TBI

TBI can also cause epilepsy and increase the risk for conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and other brain disorders that become more prevalent with age.

Concussions and the Dangers of Repeated Brain Injury

About 75% of TBIs that occur each year are concussions.

Repeated concussions occurring over an extended period of time (i.e., months, years) can result in cumulative neurological and cognitive deficits. Repeated concussions occurring within a short period of time (i.e., hours, days, or weeks) can be catastrophic or fatal.

General Tips to Help Aid in Brain Injury Recovery:

  • Get lots of rest. Don’t rush back to daily activities such as work or school.
  • Avoid doing anything that could cause another blow or jolt to the head.
  • Ask your health care professional when it’s safe to drive a car, ride a bike, or use heavy equipment, because your ability to react may be slower after a brain injury.
  • Take only the drugs your health care professional has approved, and don’t drink alcohol until your health care professional says it’s OK.
  • Write things down if you have a hard time remembering.
  • You may need help to re-learn skills that were lost. Your health care professional can help arrange for these services.

Get Help Navigating Brain Injury Resources in Connecticut

If you or someone you know has a brain injury or needs help navigating brain injury-related resources or information, BIAC can help. Visit Get Help Now for more information.

The above was adapted from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. For original source information, Click here to visit cdc.gov.

Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS) Military Support Program

DMHAS Military Support Program: Outpatient Counseling, Case Management, and 24/7 Support for Connecticut Veterans and Families

Services include outpatient counseling for veterans and family members, case management, and a 24/7 call center.

Visit the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services

Phone: Toll-Free 1.866.251.2913

Connecticut Department of Veterans’ Affairs

Connecticut Department of Veterans’ Affairs: Helping Veterans, Spouses, and Dependents Access Federal, State, and Local Benefits

Provides assistance to veterans, their eligible spouses and eligible dependents in obtaining veterans’ benefits under federal, state and local laws.
Phone: 860.616.3600

Please Visit Connecticut Department of Veterans’ Affairs

Connecticut Vet Centers

Connecticut Vet Centers: Counseling Services and Combat Concussion Support for Veterans and Their Families.

Counseling services for veterans and family members.
Phone: Toll Free 1.877.927.8387; Danbury – 203.790.4000; Norwich – 860.877.1755; Orange – (203) 795-6091; Rocky Hill – 860.563.8800
Veterans with Combat Concussion Support Group
Location: New Haven Vet Center, 141 Captain Thomas Blvd., West Haven
Group Facilitator: Gabe Kautzner at 203-795-0148 or gabor.kautzner@va.gov

Visit Connecticut Vet Centers

Veterans Diversion and Trauma Recovery Program

Veterans Diversion and Trauma Recovery Program: Connecting Connecticut Service Members and Veterans to Trauma-Integrated Treatment and Recovery Support.

Jail diversion and trauma recovery program serves military service members and veterans and diverts veterans with trauma-related symptoms to a seamless system of treatment and recovery support services. The program provides assessment and treatment planning services, access to trauma-integrated treatment services, referral to benefits and recovery support services provided by multiple local, state, and federal providers, ongoing support through the adjudication of their court case, and forensic case management.

Visit the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services for more information


Phone: 860.859.4602

Naval Health Clinic New England — TRI-Service Warrior Care Clinic

Naval Health New England: Warrior Care Clinic: Supporting Service Members with Injuries, Including TBI.

The overarching goal of the Tri-Service Warrior Care Clinic is to facilitate return to duty. This mission is accomplished by providing coordinated and comprehensive multidisciplinary assessment and treatment for active duty service members with mild to moderate traumatic brain injury, post-traumatic stress disorder, sleep disorders, and chronic pain.
Phone: 888.628.9633

Naval Health Clinic New England — TRI-Service Warrior Care Clinic

U.S. Dept of Veterans Affairs: VA Connecticut Healthcare System

VA Connecticut Healthcare System: Connecting Connecticut Veterans to Comprehensive Healthcare, Benefits, and TBI Support

Information about federal health care benefits.
West Haven Campus – 203.932.5711
Newington Campus – 860.666.6951

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs — VA Connecticut Healthcare System

BrainLineMilitary

BrainLine Military: Information and Support for Veterans and Service Members Living with Traumatic Brain Injury.

Help for service members, veterans, national guard, reserve, and families.

Phone: 703.998.2020

A service of brainline.org

BrainLineMilitary

TBI: A Guide for Caregivers of Service Members and Veterans

Supporting Those Who Served: Resources and Strategies for Caregivers Navigating Traumatic Brain Injury

Guide Produced by The Defense and Veterans Brain Injury Center. Additionally, document can be viewed at and searched by section.

DVBICFamilyCaregiverCurriculum_Full.pdf

VeteranAid.org

VeteranAid.org: Helping Veterans and Families Navigate Benefits Related to Brain Injury and Long-Term Care.

A website that offers detailed information on a veteran’s pension benefit is called Aid and Attendance (A&A). A Wartime Veteran or surviving spouse who requires the assistance of another person to perform daily tasks, such as eating, dressing, undressing, taking care of the needs of nature, etc., may be eligible. Individuals residing in a nursing home or assisted living facility may also be eligible.

Phone: (866) 584-7191

VeteranAid.org

Financial Resources and Discounts for Military Families

Finding Financial Relief: Assistance Programs, Discounts, and Support Resources for Connecticut Military Families

Website offering information and website links to organizations that provide assistance to military families, including military spouse assistance, benefits for dependents and children, financial assistance, and organizations that provide discounts to veterans and their families.

Financial Resources and Discounts for Military Families

BrainLine TBI Resources

BrainLine TBI Resources: Comprehensive National Resources, Videos, and Articles on Traumatic Brain Injury.

BrainLine is a website that offers information and resources about preventing, treating, and living with Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). It serves anyone whose life has been affected by TBI including people with brain injury, their families, friends, professionals, etc. BrainLine offers webcasts, an electronic newsletter, articles, and videos on a wide range of issues. BrainLine has a team of subject matter experts who review the site to make sure it is up to date on the latest resources.

Phone: 703.998.2020

BrainLine

Neurology Now

About Neurology Now Magazine

Magazine that covers topics on brain health and neurologic diseases.  Subscriptions are free.

Neurology Now

Traumatic Brain Injury National Resource Center Factsheets

TBI National Resource Center Fact Sheets: Covering Symptoms, Treatment, and Recovery Topics.

Fact Sheets were developed by the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research (NIDRR)-funded Model System Knowledge Translation Center and the Model System programs. Topics of interest are covered by experts in the field.

Traumatic Brain Injury National Resource Center—Fact Sheets

The Research and Training Center on Community Integration of Individuals with Traumatic Brain Injury

Research and Training Center on Community Integration: Supporting Community Outcomes for Individuals with TBI

An affiliate of Mount Sinai School of Medicine, The Research and Training Center on Community Integration works to expand our knowledge of ‘what works’ when it comes to helping people with traumatic brain injuries live their lives

The Research and Training Center on Community Integration of Individuals with Traumatic Brain Injury

The Ohio Valley Center for Brain Injury Prevention and Rehabilitation

The Ohio Valley Center for Brain Injury Prevention and Rehabilitation: Research and Resources for Survivors and Providers.

An affiliate of Ohio State University, The Ohio Valley Center for Brain Injury Prevention provides general information about brain injury, as well as specific information about substance abuse and agitation.

Ohio Valley Center for Brain Injury Prevention Rehabilitation

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: National Data, Prevention Guidance, and Public Health Resources on TBI.

The CDC is a federal agency that is in charge of protecting the public’s health and safety, both at home and abroad, by providing the credible information required to enhance health decisions and by promoting health through strong partnerships.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

The National TBI Resource Center for Traumatic Brain Injury

The National Resource Center for Traumatic Brain Injury: Research-Based Information and Support.

The National TBI Resource Center Affiliated with Virginia Commonwealth University, provides relevant, practical information for professionals, persons with brain injury, and family members.

Phone:  (804) 828-2377 (for website questions)

The National Resource Center for Traumatic Brain Injury

Dana Alliance Brain Research

The Dana Alliance: Advancing Public Education on Brain Research and Brain Injury.

The Dana Alliance Provides general information about the brain and current brain research.

Phone: (212) 223-4040

The Dana Alliance for Brain Injury

CT Bar Association

Connecticut Bar Association: Attorney Referrals and Legal Resources for Residents and Families.

CT Bar Association serves the general public as a source that offers a lawyer search and addresses grievance issues.

30 Bank Street New Britain, CT 06051

Phones:

(860) 223-4400

(860) 223-4488 (Fax)

E-mail: msc@ctbar.org

CT Bar Association

CT Probate Court

Connecticut Probate Court: Understanding Guardianship and Conservatorship Processes for Brain Injury Survivors.

Probate Courts appoint conservators to oversee the finances and/or personal care of adults who are unable to manage their affairs.  

Click here for  Probate Court User Guide for Conservators. 

Click here for Probate Court Forms.

For other general information:

Address: 186 Newington Road West Hartford, CT 06110

Phone: 860-418-7000

Working hours: 8 am-5 pm

CT Probate Court

Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS)

Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS): Mental Health and Addiction Support for Connecticut Residents.

The Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS) promotes and administers comprehensive, recovery-oriented services in the areas of mental health treatment and substance abuse prevention and treatment throughout Connecticut.    DMHAS offers an Acquired Brain Injury Program to eligible individuals who have both mental health diagnoses and brain injuries.

  • ABI Program Brochure
  • ABI Consultation Referral Form  – once the form is complete, you can fax it to 860-262-5852 or mailed to ABI Services, CVH, Beers Hall 3rd Fl., PO Box 351/Silver St. Middletown, CT 06457.
  • Direct Contact – Referrals and Intakes, Consultation and Diversion Program, ABI Substance Program:    Dorine Brogan, LCSW, CBIS, Supervising Clinician, 860-262-6728, Dorine.Brogan@ct.gov
  • For general questions: 860-418-7000 (working hours are M-F 8:00 am – 4:30 pm)
  • For communication by mail: 410 Capitol Avenue PO Box 341431 Hartford, CT 06134

Eligibility Criteria for ABI Services:

Accepted For DMHAS services and currently receiving qualifying services

Has a qualifying Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) as determined through appropriate documentation

Does not have a primary diagnosis of a degenerative cognitive disorder

The dysfunction of the central nervous system is not congenital, developmental or degenerative

The services are accepted voluntarily

Program Services

  • Consultation Services
  • ABI Substance Abuse Services
  • Community Residence and Transitional Housing and Living Subsidy
  • Training and Education
  • Advocacy Supports

Consultation and Diversion Program


The Regional Community Integration Specialists (CIS) provide services to persons with brain injury through the Local Mental Health Network (LMHA). The CIS is responsible for processing all referrals to the ABI Community Services Program within the designated services area; serving as a link for clients to in-patient services; arranging for clinical consultations; assisting in the development of treatment plans; serving as liaison to private/public services within the appropriate community; providing monitoring of services for DMHAS ABI clients; and providing support to consumers, family members and conservators. The CIS receives continuous training regarding brain injury services available within the particular geographic region. The CIS coordinates with other programs within DMHAS and with other Departments within the State/local services constellation that can provide services, funds, etc., to the person with brain injury.

Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS

Mental Health Association of Connecticut

Mental Health Association of Connecticut: Advocacy, Education, and Peer Support for Recovery.

The Mental Health Association of Connecticut is a statewide, private, non-profit membership organization, and its mission is to partner with individuals, families, and communities to create environments that support long-term health and wellness. The services provided by our 200+ direct care staff are based on evidence-based and best practices utilized in a recovery model approach to care, which means we help individuals obtain a safe home, activate whole health living, find fulfillment and purpose, and become actively engaged in the community.

MHC has main offices in Stamford, Bridgeport, Danbury, Waterbury, Torrington, and Farmington. Our statewide programs offer in-home care and life-skill supports. Our highly acclaimed community-based residential programs are a launching pad for our program participants to gain their independence and decrease their reliance on the state-funded system of care.

Phone (Information Line): 860-529-1970

76 Batterson Park Road | Suite 303 Farmington, CT 06032

Mental Health Association of Connnecticut

National Alliance on Mental Illness Connecticut (NAMI-CT)

NAMI Connecticut: Mental Health Support, Education, and Advocacy for Individuals and Families

Since 1984 NAMI Connecticut has been the state chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness. We are a statewide grassroots organization that is dedicated to improving the quality of life for individuals living with mental illness, as well as their families and loved ones. In collaboration with our 9 local affiliates, we serve all people in Connecticut through our education, support, and advocacy programs at the state and local levels. We are located in West Hartford, Connecticut.

1030 New Britain Ave, Suite 201,  West Hartford, CT 06110

Phone: (860) 882-0236

National Alliance on Mental Illness Connecticut (NAMI-CT)

Department of Rehabilitation Services

CT’s Department of Rehabilitation Services helps residents with disabilities, including brain injury survivors, find vocational support.

The Bureau of Rehabilitation Services (BRS) assists individuals with disabilities prepare for finding or keeping a job.

Phones:

Hartford: (860) 424 4840

New Britain: (860) 612 3569

Middletown: (860) 740 1080

New Haven: (203) 974 3000

Bridgeport: (203) 683 0500

Stamford: (203) 653 1939

Waterbury: (203) 578 4550

Willimantic: (860) 455 1606

Torrington: (860) 294 0013

For more contact information, please visit the BRS website

Department of Rehabilitation Services

Ct Department of Labor

Connecticut Department of Labor: Employment Services and Job Search Resources for Residents.

CT Department of Labor Provides information on unemployment benefits and work-related issues.

Phone: 860-263-6000

200 Folly Brook Blvd. Wethersfield, CT 06109

Ct Department of Labor

CT TECH ACT Project

CT Tech Act Project: Connecting Residents with Disabilities to Assistive Technology Resources.

CT Tech Act Project, Works to increase independence and improve the lives of individuals through increased access to Assistive Technology for work, school, and community living.

Phone: 860-424-4839

55 Farmington Avenue, 12th Floor, Hartford, CT 06105

CT TECH ACT Project

American Job Centers

American Job Centers: Employment Services and Job Training for Connecticut Residents, Including Brain Injury Survivors.

American Job Centers provides career centers offer resume writing, job search strategies, Career Development Specialists, interview techniques, and access to computers, phones, and faxes for job search.

Phones:

Hartford: (860) 256-3700

Bridgeport: (203) 455-2700

Hamden: (203) 859-3200

Montville: (860) 848-5200

New Haven: (203) 624-1493

Waterbury: (203) 437-3380

For more information, please click on the link below to visit the American Job Centers website.

American Job Centers

The Connect to Work Project

The Connect to Work Project: Helping Connecticut Residents with Disabilities Find Meaningful Employment.

Benefits Specialists (work incentive staff) located throughout the state’s five regions provide benefits counseling to persons with disabilities who are interested in working.

55 Farmington Ave. Hartford, CT 06105-3730

Phones:

860-424-5055

800-537-2549 (toll-free)

The Connect to Work Project

Connect-ability

Connect-Ability: Linking Connecticut Residents with Disabilities to Services and Community Resources.

Offers information, toll, and technical assistance to job seekers and employers rather than providing direct job placement services.

Contact information:

Windsor / East Hartford

Thomas J. LoVoi

Phone: (860) 697-3531 or (860) 310-7264 (c)

email: Thomas.Lavoi@ct.go

New  Britain/Hartford

Zahra Jolly
Phone: (860) 538-0491,(860) 612-3581, or (860) 538-0491 (c)
email: Zahra.Jolly@ct.gov

New Haven

Sanjiv Chaturvedi
Phone: (203) 974-3004
email: Sanjiv.Chaturvedi@ct.gov

Uncasville

Laura Reed
Phone: (860) 848-5967 or (860) 929-2110 (c)
email: Laura.Reed@ct.gov

Bridgeport

Alexa Soberal
Phone: (203) 683–0653 or (860) 819-4147 (c)
email: Alexa.Soberal@ct.gov

Danbury/Stamford

Lauren McAulay
Phone: (203) 702-1141 or (860) 549-7820 (c)
email: Lauren.Mcaulay@ct.gov

Middletown/New Haven

Ronald Thomas
Phone: (860) 740-1085
email: Ronald.Thomas@ct.gov

Bureau of Education and Services for the Blind

Jonathan Richmond
Phone: (860) 602-4031
email: Jonathan.Richmond@ct.gov

Connect-ability

Goodwill Career Services Center

About Goodwill Career Services Centers

Goodwill provides various career services FREE to the community through their Career Centers.

Goodwill Career Services Center

Job Accommodation Network

About the Job Accommodation Network (JAN)

A resource for reasonable workplace accommodation solutions.
Phone: 1.800.526.7234

Job Accommodation Network

The New England Assistive Technology Marketplace (NEAT) Resource and Education Center

NEAT Resource and Education Center: Connecting Residents to Assistive Technology Tools and Education.

The NEAT Resource and Education Center provides people with access to products, new and used equipment, training, and services that enhance the independence and quality of life for people with disabilities of all ages.

120 Holcomb Street, Hartford, CT 06112

Phone: (860) 242-2274, (860) 286-3113 TTY

The New England Assistive Technology Marketplace (NEAT) Resource and Education Center

State of CT Workers Compensation Commission

State of Connecticut Workers Compensation Commission: Handling Workplace Injury Claims, Including Brain Injury.

CT Workers Compensation Commission, offers resources for those who have been injured at work.

Capitol Place, 4th Floor 21 Oak Street Hartford, CT 06106

Phone: (860) 493-1500 and 1-800-223-9675 (toll-free) and (860) 247-1361 (fax)

State of CT Workers Compensation Commission

CWEALF, Now Known as She Leads Justice

She Leads Justice, Formerly CWEALF: Empowering Connecticut Women Through Education, Legal Advocacy, and Community Support.

CWEALF now known as She Leads Justice is a statewide nonprofit organization that advocates for and empowers women and girls in Connecticut, especially those who are under-resourced or marginalized. We work to create an equitable society where women and girls thrive.  Offers legal advocacy and information on family issues, employment and civil rights.

She Leads Justice’s mission –  advocates for and empowers women and girls in Connecticut, especially those who are underserved or marginalized. Working to create an equitable society where women and girls thrive

She Leads Justice
PO Box 320460
Hartford, CT 06132
 
Phone –  (860) 247-6090
Email –  info@sheleadsjustice.org

Need Legal Info?
Call (860) 524-0601
M-Th 9am-2pm, F 9am-1pm or contact us here

 

The Disability Rights Connecticut, Inc. (DRC)

Disability Rights Connecticut, Inc. (DRC): Legal Protection and Advocacy for Individuals with Disabilities.

DRCT is a statewide non-profit organization.  Its mission is to advocate, educate, investigate and pursue legal, administrative, and other appropriate remedies to advance and protect the civil rights of individuals with disabilities to participate equally and fully in all facets of community life in Connecticut.

DRCT operates the PATBI (Protection and Advocacy for Persons with Traumatic Brain Injury) program in Connecticut that provides education, advocacy representation and legal assistance to individuals with acquired or traumatic brain injury (TBI). The PATBI program provides FREE individualized advocacy assistance to individuals with TBI. Statewide coverage.

75 Charter Oak Avenue

Suite 1- 101
Hartford, CT 06106
Phones:
(860) 297-4300 (voice)
(800) 842-7303 (toll-free CT)
(860) 509-4992 (videophone)
(860) 296-0055 (fax)

Working hours: M-F 8:00 am – 4:30 pm

E-mail: info@DisRightsCT.org

The Disability Rights Connecticut, Inc. (DRC)

My Place CT

What My Place CT Offers Connecticut Residents

My Place CT is a website that provides a library of resources, services, and supports. Included is a section on finding housing as well as transportation.

My Place CT

Homeless Shelters

Finding Homeless Shelters in Connecticut

Call 2-1-1

Homeless Shelters

Mobility Ombudsmen in Connecticut

Mobility Ombudsmen in Connecticut: Helping Residents Resolve Transportation and Mobility Barriers.

Mobility Ombudsmen in Connecticut connect people with disabilities, older adults, and veterans with accessible, reliable transportation so that they are able to participate in their communities. Contact the Mobility Ombudsmen in your area to find out how to access transportation.

Mobility Ombudsmen in Connecticut

Freedom Ride Program

Freedom Ride Program: Transportation Assistance for Connecticut Residents with Disabilities.

Freedom Ride Program is a prepaid reduced fare voucher program, which offers a 50% discount from the normal taxicab rate, with a minimum purchase of $25 initially. It is available to ADA eligible passengers who need transportation beyond the traditional ADA paratransit service area and hours or for same-day service. For more information about the Freedom Ride Taxi Voucher program look here: information sheet. You can also call 860-247-5329 extension 3086 for more information.

For Freedom Ride Services in Greater New Haven or Greater Bridgeport contact M7. To be eligible, an individual must meet the definition of “disabled” under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Greater New Haven Transit District (GNHTD) and Greater Bridgeport Transit District (GBTD) staff will interview individuals for eligibility. For applications and program details please contact the following:

    • For the New Haven area, please call: 203-288-6282 x-2518
    • For the Bridgeport area, please call The Kennedy Center: The Kennedy Collective 203-365-8522 x2018

Freedom Ride Program

Connecticut Utilities Assistance

Connecticut Utilities Assistance: Support Programs for Residents Facing Financial Hardship

Please call Infoline at 2-1-1 to find your nearest fuel bank or other utilities assistance.

Connecticut Energy Assistance Program (CEAP)

Helping Connecticut Residents, Including Brain Injury Survivors, Access Home Heating and Energy Assistance

The Connecticut Energy Assistance Program (CEA) can help low-income households pay their winter heating bills. Applications are handled by the local Community Action Agency (CAA). To find your local CAA call Infoline at 2-1-1
Operation Fuel and local fuel banks offer private, non-profit energy assistance to those who need emergency help with energy bills and are not eligible for state or federal assistance. The maximum assistance available is $250 per household for the heating season. For your local fuel bank, call Infoline by dialing 2-1-1

Connecticut Energy Assistance Program (CEAP)

Center for Disability Rights

Center for Disabilities Rights: Advocacy and Support for Connecticut Individuals with Disabilities.

The Center for Disability Rights is a membership-based organization of persons with disabilities that operates a Center for Independent Living (CIL). Based in West Haven, Connecticut, the Center for Disability Rights advocates for people with disabilities and their issues on a local, statewide, and national level. We also provide services to individuals and their families, as well as technical assistance and community education to businesses, government, and members of the community.

CDR fully serves the following towns:

West Haven; Milford; Orange; Woodbridge; Madison, Clinton, and Westbrook

369 Highland Street   West Haven, CT 06516

Phone: (203) 934-7077 and (203) 934-7078 (fax)

Center for Disabilities Rights

Disabilities Network of Eastern Connecticut

Disabilities Network of Eastern Connecticut: Independent Living Services for Residents with Disabilities.

Disabilities Network of Eastern Connecticut is a Center for Independent Living that serves disabled individuals of all ages that reside in Eastern Connecticut.  They provide various services such as advocacy, peer mentoring, and independent living skills training and assist with remaining or returning to living in the community.

19 Ohio Ave., Norwich, CT 06360

Phone: 860-823-1898, 860-886-2316 (Fax) and 860-255-4190 (Videophone)

Disabilities Network of Eastern Connecticut

Access Independence

Access Independence: Independent Living Services and Advocacy for Connecticut Residents with Disabilities.

Access Independence is a nonprofit organization providing services to individuals regardless of disability, age, race, gender, or sexual orientation.

300 Long Beach Blvd, Suite 1
Stratford, CT 06615

Phone: (203)-378-6977 and (203) 375-2748 (fax)

Access Independence

Independence Unlimited, Inc.

Independence Unlimited, Inc.: Independent Living Services and Advocacy for Connecticut Residents with Disabilities.

Independence Unlimited, Incorporated (IU) is a non-residential, non-profit center for independent living that serves very diverse populations in 38 cities and towns mainly Hartford County. The Center, which was established in 1982, is governed and managed by people with disabilities.

We provide a variety of services that benefit persons with disabilities such as aging-in-place assessments and resources so people can remain in their own homes, live in the community, and pursue their dreams. The primary purpose of the agency is to support persons with disabilities to live in the community as an alternative to institutionalization.

151 New Park Ave, Suite 65, Hartford, CT 06106

Phone: 860-523-5021 and 860-523-5603 (fax)

Independence Unlimited, Inc.

Independence Northwest

Independence Northwest: Independent Living Services for Residents with Disabilities in Northwest Connecticut.

Independence Northwest is for people with disabilities from people with disabilities! Most of the people on our staff, management, and board have personally faced the same barriers you face every day. We’ve learned how to surmount many of the obstacles that stood in the way of our leading more independent lives.

1183 New Haven Rd. , Naugatuck, CT 06770

Phone: 203-490-2373

Independence Northwest

The Center for Medicare Advocacy

Understanding Your Medicare Rights: Free Legal Help and Education for Connecticut Residents.

A private, non-profit organization that provides education, advocacy, and legal assistance to help those who are elderly and those with disabilities obtain necessary healthcare. This organization focuses on the needs of Medicare beneficiaries, people with chronic conditions, and those in need of long-term care.

P.O. Box 350 Willimantic, CT 06226
Phone: 860.456.7790

The Center for Medicare Advocacy

The Office of Victim Services

The Office of Victim Services: Supporting Connecticut Crime Victims, Including Survivors of Violence-Related Brain Injury.

OVS, Responds to the needs of crime victims by providing information, referrals, and direct assistance. Reimbursement for medical bills, counseling, lost wages, disabilities and other expenses experienced as a result of a crime can be obtained through the Victims’ Compensation Fund.

Office Hours: Monday to Friday 8 am to 4:30 pm

225 Spring Street, 4th Floor, Wethersfield, CT 06109

Phone: 1-860-263-2760 (Administration), 1-888-286-7347 (Victim Compensation), 1-860-263-2760 (Education Unit)

The Office of Victim Services

Connecticut Fair Housing Center

Connecticut Fair Housing Center: Advocating for Fair Housing Access and Addressing Disability Discrimination.

Connecticut Fair Housing Center is dedicated to enforcing housing laws. The Center provides advocacy, attorney referrals and information in connection with individual housing discrimination complaints.

60 Popieluszko Court
Hartford, CT 06106

Phone: 860-247-4400 or (888) 247-4401 or 888-247-4401 ( toll free ).

info@ctfairhousing.org

Connecticut Fair Housing Center

Connecticut Legal Rights Project

Connecticut Legal Rights Project: Legal Advocacy for Individuals with Psychiatric Disabilities.

Connecticut Legal Rights Project, provides legal services to low-income individuals with mental health conditions, who reside in hospitals or the community, on matters related to their treatment, recovery, and civil rights.

P.O. Box 351, Silver Street Middletown, CT 06457

Hours: Monday – Friday from 10 am to12pm or 1 pm to 3 pm
Phone: 877-402-2299

Connecticut Legal Rights Project

CTLawHelp.org

CTLawHelp.org: Free Legal Information and Self-Help Resources for Connecticut Residents.

CTLawHelp.org was created by several nonprofit legal aid organizations whose shared mission is to improve the lives of Connecticut residents by providing free legal help to people with very low incomes.

Provides information and tools to help individuals represent themselves – created by Connecticut’s Legal Aid programs to assist people with very low income to find help for their legal problems.

Toll-free: 1-800-453-3320
860-344-0380 (from Middletown and Hartford)

Hotline hours:
9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Monday through Friday

CTLawHelp.org

Statewide Legal Services

Statewide Legal Services of Connecticut: Free Legal Assistance for Eligible Residents and Families.

Statewide Legal Service, Provides Free legal services to individuals who meet their income eligibility requirements in Connecticut.

Call in Hours are Monday – Friday  9am to 12pm and 1pm to 2pm

Toll Free Phone: 1-800-559-1565

Calling From Middletown and Hartford: 860.344.0380

Call 860-300-3845 for applying for legal help (include “text APPLY”)

 

Statewide Legal Services

The Personal Care Assistance (PCA) Medicaid Waiver Program

Personal Care Assistance (PCA) Medicaid Waiver Program: Funding Personal Care for Residents with Significant Disabilities.

The Personal Care Assistance (PCA) Medicaid Waiver Program is a home and community-based services waiver that provides personal care assistance services under Medicaid. Income eligibility applies.

9th floor 55 Farmington Avenue, Hartford, CT 06105-3725

To learn more about the PCA waiver, call toll-free 1-800-445-5394 or visit the CT Department of Social Services.

The Personal Care Assistance (PCA) Medicaid Waiver Program

Community First Choice

Community First Choice CT: Home and Community-Based Care Services Supporting Independent Living for Connecticut Residents with Disabilities.

Community First Choice (CFC) is a new program in Connecticut offered to active Medicaid members as part of the Affordable Care Act. It is through the CT Department of Social Services (DSS)This program allows individuals to receive supports and services in their home. These services can include—but are not limited to—help preparing meals and doing household chores, and assistance with activities of daily living (bathing, dressing, transferring, etc.). Educational services will be available to help an individual increase his/her independence and learn how to manage in-home staff. CFC is open to any Medicaid member that can self-direct services and meets Institutional Level of Care. Institutional Level of Care means the individual would likely need to be in an institution, such as a nursing home, if they did not have home and community-based services. This program allows an eligible person to have care and support in their home. Call 2-1-1 Option 3 to apply or for additional information. To apply online: CFC
To apply for food, cash and medical coverage (including programs listed below), call 1.855.6.CONNECT (1.855.626.6632) or visit the Department of Social Services/ConneCT online.
Some individuals choose to apply for benefits in person.

Community First Choice

The Supplemental Nutrition Program (SNAP)

Helping Connecticut Brain Injury Survivors and Families Access Food Assistance Through SNAP Benefits.

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly the Food Stamp Program, is a federally funded program that helps low-income individuals to buy food. The application can be found online and can be submitted online, mailed or dropped off to your local DSS Regional office.

For information about income limits and benefit amounts for households of 8 or more, or for any other information about SNAP, please call 1-855-626-6632.

The Supplemental Nutrition Program (SNAP)

Temporary Family Assistance (TFA)

Short-Term Financial Support for Eligible Connecticut Families Facing Hardship.

Temporary Family Assistance (TFA) is a cash assistance program that provides monthly cash and employment assistance to eligible families throughout Connecticut to support basic human needs to families who have the responsibility of caring for children under the age of 18 with a limit of 21 months.  You can visit your local DSS office, call 2-1-1 or 1-855-CONNECT ( 1-855-626-6632)

Temporary Family Assistance (TFA)

State Administered General Assistance (SAGA)

State Administered General Assistance (SAGA): Benefits for Eligible Connecticut Residents Facing Hardship.

State-Administered General Assistance (SAGA) is a DSS-run program that provides cash assistance to those who are permanently or temporarily unable to work due to a documented medical or other related condition and whose income and assets fall below program limits.  The fastest way to apply is online at the DSS website or call the DSS Benefits Center at 1-855-CONNECT (1-855-626-6632) and request they mail you an application.

For the deaf or hard hearing, call 1-800-842-4524. For the visually impaired, call 1-860-424-5040.

SAGA_CASH_FactSheet.pdfState Administered General Assistance (SAGA)

State Supplement

State Supplement Program: Additional Financial Assistance for Eligible Connecticut Residents with Disabilities.

The State Supplement program provides cash assistance to the Aged, Blind, or Disabled to supplement their income. In order to receive benefits, individuals must have another source of income such as Social Security, Supplemental Security Income, or Veterans’ benefits. To qualify as aged, an individual must be 65 years of age or older; to qualify as disabled, an individual must be between the ages of 18 and 65 and meet the disability criteria of the federal Social Security Disability Insurance program. Liquid assets cannot exceed $1,600 for a single person or $2,400 for a couple. If a recipient owns a home, a lien is placed upon it.

For more information, call 2-1-1 and 1-855-CONNECT ( 1-855-626-6632).

State Supplement

Access Health CT

Finding Health Insurance Coverage for Connecticut Residents Through the Access Health CT Marketplace.

Access Health CT is Connecticut’s official health insurance marketplace. Phone: 1.855.805.4325 or TTY: 1.855.789.2428

Access Health CT

General Medicare

Understanding Medicare Coverage, Eligibility, and Benefits for Connecticut Brain Injury Survivors and Families.

General Medicare information is available by ordering Medicare booklets that explain Medicare health plans. Phone: 1.800.633.4227 and TTY users can call 1.877.486.2048

General Medicare

Husky Health Connecticut

HUSKY Health Connecticut: Comprehensive Healthcare Coverage for Uninsured Children, Parents, and Residents with Disabilities.

Husky Health Connecticut assists with the healthcare needs of uninsured children and youth, parents and individuals with disabilities. The HUSKY Health program offers a comprehensive health care benefit package. Basic benefits for all HUSKY Health members including: preventative care, doctors visits, Women’s Healthcare, Family Planning Services, Maternity Care, Long term services and supports and hospital stays, etc.

Visit Husky Health Connecticut

For more information on Husky A, B and D program enrollment call 1.855.805.4325 . 

For more information on Husky Health Program benefits and services 1.800.859.9889

Monday through Friday between 8:00am – 6:00pm.

Husky Health Connecticut

C.H.O.I.C.E.S Program

CHOICES Program: Free Medicare Counseling, Health Insurance Guidance, and Benefits Screening for Connecticut Residents.

The C.H.O.I.C.E.S Program (CT’s Health insurance assistance, Outreach, Information and referral, Counseling, and Eligibility Screening) provides free information about medigap policies, long-term care insurance, Medicare health plan choices, Medicare rights and protections, and benefits screening, etc…Also known as SHIP. State Health Insurance Assistance Program. Phone: 1.800.994.9422

C.H.O.I.C.E.S Program

Social Security Administration

Social Security Administration: Federal Retirement, Disability, and Survivors Benefits Supporting Connecticut Residents.

SSA — Social Security Administration is a federally funded social insurance program that primarily helps individuals maintain basic well being through retirement, disability or survivors benefits.  You can apply for benefits by calling the SSA national number 800- 772-1213 (TTY 800-325-0778) or call your local Social Security office.

Social Security Administration

Social Security and Disability Resource Center (SSDRC)

SSDRC: A Trusted Resource for Understanding Social Security Disability, SSI, and Federal Benefit Programs.

The Social Security and Disability Resource Center (SSDRC) provides information on federal disability benefit programs, SSD (social security disability, mandated under Title II of the social security act) and SSI (supplemental security income, mandated under Title 16), in addition to answering questions about social security retirement benefits and providing resource links on topics such as Medicare. The SSDRC is published, edited, and maintained by Tim Moore, a former disability claims examiner for the social security administration’s disability determination services (DDS), as well as a former caseworker with a background in many federal assistance programs, including Medicaid for Disabled Adults.

Social Security and Disability Resource Center (SSDRC)

Housing, Transportation, and Energy Assistance CT

Connecting Brain Injury Survivors and Families to Housing, Transportation, and Energy Assistance in Connecticut.

The following organizations can help individuals with brain injuries and their families with their housing needs. A link to each organization’s web site is included where available.

CT Housing Search

About the CT Housing Search Rental Locator Service

CT Housing Search provides a Free Rental Housing Locator Service. Search online or call 1.877.428.8844 to look for affordable or accessible housing.

CT Housing Search

US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD): Federal Housing Assistance for Residents with Disabilities.

The US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) published a booklet, ‘Looking for HUD–Assisted Rental Housing in Connecticut. Call 202-708-1112 or 202-708-1455 (TTY) to request a free copy. This book contains information on Public housing (low-income housing) which is operated by the local housing authority. There are apartments for people with disabilities. You can contact as many housing authorities as you want. Each town has its listing of units. There are often long wait lists so it is best to apply to as many places as possible. Contact numbers are included in the booklet for the properties and housing authorities.

US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)

CT Department of Housing (DOH)

Connecticut Department of Housing (DOH): Overseeing State Housing Programs for Residents with Disabilities.

The CT Department of Housing’s mission is to ensure everyone has access to quality housing opportunities and options throughout the State of Connecticut.

505 Hudson Street
Hartford, CT 06106-7106

DOH Main Line: 860.270.8262
Individual & Family Support Assistance Line: 860.270.8260

CT Department of Housing (DOH)

Housing Choice Voucher Plan

Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8): Federal Rental Assistance Helping Low-Income Families and People with Disabilities.

Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8) is a federally funded program administered by the CT Department of Housing, which helps low income families and people with disabilities to afford housing in the private market. This program is often closed. Please visit the United Way Housing Choice Voucher Program website to determine if there are current openings or Call 2-1-1.

Housing Choice Voucher Plan

Social Services

Connecting Brain Injury Survivors and Families to Essential Social Services and Support Programs in Connecticut.

The Department of Social Services (DSS) operate programs Cash Assistance, Medicaid or SNAP benefits.  The following programs may be very helpful to individuals with brain injuries, their families, and caregivers.
Note: If as a result of the brain injury, you’re unable to complete a DSS application without assistance or maintain benefits without assistance, contact the ADA Coordinator by calling 860.424.5040.  You can request an accommodation to ensure you are able to access services.