2-1-1 Community Connection

United Way of Connecticut
GIVE. ADVOCATE. VOLUNTEER.

	2-1-1 Community Connection	January 2012

Message from Richard Porth
President, United Way of Connecticut

The New State EITC

The federal Earned Income Tax Credit is regarded as one of the most effective poverty-reduction programs in the US. The EITC helps to reward work and lower the income tax burden on low- to moderate-income individuals and families. It can provide an opportunity to reduce debt, save for the future or invest in a home or education. Now, Connecticut filers can realize even greater tax savings by filing for the new state EITC. The state EITC is equal to 30% of the federal tax credit. For more information about EITC and to find free tax preparation assistance, dial 2-1-1 or click here.

Invest in the Future. Mentor a Child
January is National Mentoring Month

Research shows that youth-adult mentor matches can improve student grades, school attendance, career options, family relationships and deter drug and alcohol use. Since its inception, Connecticut's Mentoring Partnership has created over 300 new mentoring programs, established a state-wide male mentor recruitment campaign and initiated the Mentor Training Institute.To find mentoring opportunities near you, visit www.211ct.org, enter your town and "mentoring" under Search by Service Keyword. .

2-1-1 at a Glance

2-1-1 Handles Record Contacts in 2011

United Way 2-1-1 handled over 390,000 calls and registered over a million visits on 211ct.org in 2011. Individuals and families contact 2-1-1 for a full range of health and human service needs but are most often seeking help with housing, utilities and financial assistance. Click here for the top requests statewide and in your United Way area.

It's Winter - Always Be Prepared!

It's been a mild winter season so far, but it's always best to be prepared in case of a winter storm or extreme cold weather. The Federal Emergency Management Agency urges everyone to Be Informed, Make a Plan, Build a Kit. Read the new 2-1-1 eLibrary paper Winter Storms and Blizzards to be ready for whatever winter may bring!

For information on winter heating assistance click here.
Click here for United Way of Connecticut's 2011 Annual Report.

The mission of the United Way of Connecticut is to help meet the needs of Connecticut residents by providing information, education and connection to services.

United Way of Connecticut GIVE. ADVOCATE. VOLUNTEER.

United Way of Connecticut
GIVE. ADVOCATE. VOLUNTEER.