Housing

Under the new federally funded program, low- and moderate-income families can apply for up to $32,000 to pay for unexpected expenses associated with their foundation repairs.

Hartford city employees can apply for a $10,000 forgivable loan to go toward a home down payment.

The average oil price in Connecticut is less than it was last December, but that doesn’t mean they won’t rise, according to Connecticut consumer counsel.

About $30 million of that money was already allocated or spent, according to housing advocates. But the $16 million in new flex funds can be used for one-off needs.

There are about 1,000 people experiencing homelessness in the state, and that’s a record number for Connecticut. However, the number of unhoused residents is likely higher.

Homelessness in the Greater Hartford area has risen by 10% over last year and the number of available shelter beds has decreased.

A newly proposed federal bill, which provides free legal counsel for low-income residents facing eviction, was inspired by groundbreaking Connecticut legislation.

Residents from Ansonia, Shelton and surrounding municipalities, met Monday at Ansonia city hall to share their stories and urged lawmakers to seek more federal aid to use toward home heating assistance.

An increase in utility costs is driving a spike in families seeking aid. During the most recent application period, which ran from August to October, Operation Fuel says the number of families seeking assistance doubled.

The apprenticeship, which will enable students to receive a Child Development Associate credential, looks to increase language offerings.