Social Services Department

Anne M. Schmid, Director
61 East Main St., Clinton, CT 06413
(860) 669-7347
Hours:  9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Introduction

The Social Service Department provides services to all town residents in need of assistance for a variety of reasons - single men and women, families, elderly, disabled, veterans, homeless, students.  Clients are assessed to determine the appropriate action, i.e., completion of applications for  Medicaid (Title 19), food stamps, Saga (State General Assistance), Husky (healthcare) for children, ConnPace (prescription drug assistance for seniors), Head Start, campership programs for children provided by the Salvation Army, Girl Scouts and Red-Cross, veterans benefits through the Soldiers, Sailors and Marines Fund, and special needs of seniors over age 70 through the Muir Account, a trust established through a bequest by a Clinton resident.
Programs Singles Assistance Single men and women needing assistance undergo an interview process in order to make appropriate referrals for food, donated clothing, available shoreline jobs, job training and counseling.
Adopt-A-Family We coordinate the Adopt-A-Family program, which collects donations which are delivered to families in need near the end of each year.
Post Office Drive for Food Each year, in September, the Post Office has the major drive for food in town.  Postal workers pick up donated food from town residents' mailboxes. 
Heating Assistance The heating assistance program begins November 1st.  However, applications can be completed starting in August this year.  Call for an appointment, 669-7347.  Last year we completed over 500 fuel applications for the town of Clinton.
Veterans Assistance After an interview process, those veterans who qualify are referred to the West Haven Veterans Administration, and applications are made to the Soldiers, Sailors and Marines Fund for assistance if appropriate.  Senior veterans, of course, are also eligible for any of the benefits available to all senior citizens.  Through an interview, needs are determined for those who are disabled and available resources tapped.
Family Assistance Families seeking help are interviewed and directed to programs such as the HUSKY for Children Program, Clinton Youth & Family Services for counseling, approval for vision care and glasses paid by the Lions Club, and food and clothing as needed.
Elderly Assistance An interview is also a part of this process.  When necessary, a home visit is made to determine the extent of need or if there is abuse or neglect involved.  Follow-up is made with appropriate agencies or medical personnel as needed.  The Muir Account provides assistance with quality of life purchases not covered under a government program such as hearing aids, air conditioners, cordless telephones, etc.
Homeless Individuals Homeless individuals are interviewed to assure that available programs are in place, that referrals to regional shelters are made, and that applicable veterans benefits accessed.  If appropriate, information about A. A. or N.A. meetings is provided.
Thanksgiving & Christmas Programs Over 350 turkeys were given away last year

In addition to the Salvation Army, Red Cross, Rotary and Lions Club organizations, I want to thank all the people who support this department.  Without you, it would be difficult to assist as many people as we do. 

Margaret Mead spoke these words:  "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world.  Indeed, it's the only thing that ever has."

 

©2006-2007