From paying bills to heating your home, meeting rent to preventing a possible foreclosure, we know that financial crises often affect multiple parts of your life. Because of the reach of its network of agencies Middlesex United Way can connect you to the right help for your situation.

United Way 2-1-1
Help is never more than one phone call away. To simplify the process of getting help, United Way and the State of Connecticut support a free, statewide helpline. 2-1-1 is an easy-to-remember 3-digit phone number that connects you to vital resources and services in your community. Professional caseworkers are available to answer questions, provide information, and direct you to the help you need. The United Way 2-1-1 database can also be searched online at www.211ct.org.

Keep the Power On
Many of Connecticut's families may be faced with the challenge of paying for their utilities. And many are unaware that Northeast Utilities and the State have a number of programs to help them with their light and heat expenses. Keep the Power On holds a series of clinics all year long to meet with families and discuss the challenges with their utility bills and to provide budget counseling. Legal volunteers also may accompany the family to meet with the utility company representatives to discuss the status of their account. Pre-registration is encouraged but not required for these sessions and you must bring proof of income. Contact Attorney Bonnie Roswig, Medical Legal Partnership Project, at broswig@ccmckids.org or 860.545.8581.

Prescription Assistance
FamilyWize Prescription Drug Discount cards are available to help people afford their medications. These cards are similar to insurance in that they are shown to a pharmacist who then offers a discount. Up to $29.99 can be saved on just one prescription. The card is good for several years and an entire family can use it, even if members have different last names. To learn more about the program and where the cards can be picked up and used, visit the FamilyWize website.

You can also stop by Middlesex United Way and pick up a card. We are located at 100 Riverview Plaza in Middletown. Read more about the program under our 'News' section >>

Free Wireless Phone and Minutes
Through SafeLink Wireless Lifeline Service, individuals can receive:

• A free SafeLink Wireless phone
• A free cellular plan that gives you 64 minutes every month

You qualify for Lifeline Service in your area if:

• You already participate in one of the following assistance programs:
  • Care for Kids
  • Connecticut Energy Assistance Program
  • CONNPACE
  • Contingency Heating Assistance Program
  • Federal Public Housing Assistance / Section 8
  • SNAP (formerly known as food stamps) / Title 19 including HUSKY and Healthy Start
  • Personal Care Assistance
  • Refugee Program
  • Rental Assistance
  • State Administered General Assistance
  • State Supplemental to the Aged, Blind or Disabled
  • Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
  • Temporary Family Assistance
• No one in your household currently received Lifeline Assistance through another phone carrier. If someone in your household is receiving Lifeline Assistance, you must cancel the service before applying for LifeLine Service through SafeLink Wireless.
• You have a valid United States Postal Address. In order for us to ship you your free phone, you must live at a residence that can receive mail from the U.S. Post Office. Sorry, but P.O. box cannot be accepted.

Applying in Connecticut
Applying for Safelink Wireless Service in your area is quick and easy, and by using the safelink.com website you can be approved in less than 10 minutes. To apply, just follow these steps:

1. Fill out the application on this website: https://www.safelinkwireless.com/EnrollmentPublic/home.aspx
2. Download the completed application for your own records.
3. Write down the Enrollment ID that we provide when you fill our your application. With your ID you will be able to check on the status of your application or by calling 1-800-977-3768.

Important Links You Should Know About:

FAQ About the Swine Flu

Where to Turn in Connecticut When You Become Unemployed, a comprehensive guide from United Way 2-1-1

Consumer Credit Counseling

Health Care for Uninsured Children & Youth

Food Banks & Pantries Throughout Middlesex County