Governor Ned Lamont's administration is releasing nearly $8.5 million in additional aid to connect those experiencing homelessness with support services – including housing, food, and mental health services – ahead of the upcoming winter season. The goal of the funding is to ensure that pathways to the homeless service system and human points of contact remain available for those seeking assistance.

$5 million from the Connecticut Department of Housing will support seasonal shelters and services throughout the homeless service system during the winter.  $2.5 million will develop new hubs within each of the state’s seven regional Coordinated Access Networks that supports the hiring of more staff, ensuring flexible financial assistance is available, and technological upgrades can be supported and $500,000 will go to the United Way of Connecticut to increase staffing at 2-1-1.

$475,000 from the Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services will be used by the United Way of Connecticut to support costs related to the complex needs of unsheltered individuals and families during periods of extreme cold weather.
 
The Department of Housing is working with the seven regional Coordinated Access Networks on the development of these hubs, which will be able to accept walk-in appointments and receive direct referrals from 2-1-1 staff for those who indicate they are experiencing homelessness. The hubs will serve to provide support for repeat callers of 2-1-1, while helping to reduce overall call volume at the service.