October 26, 2006

REP. DILLON CALLS FOR MEETING TO SAVE CAA FUNDING

Representative Patricia Dillon (D-New Haven) has contacted Department of Social Services (DSS) Commissioner Patricia Wilson-Coker to request she meet with the New Haven delegation to the General Assembly to resolve issues surrounding the Community Action Agency of New Haven (CAA). Commissioner Coker Wednesday made the decision to revoke CAA’s $10-million in state funding, which would result in the layoffs of 100 employees and place in jeopardy winter fuel assistance.

Rep. Dillon said, “Given CAA’s past problems, I would have understood the commissioner taking action a year or two ago. It makes no sense to do this now when she herself admits they have turned a corner. To layoff 100 employees and pull funding at the beginning of the home heating season is unwise. These issues can be resolved and should not be fatal to the agency.”

CAA provides residents of Greater New Haven with heating fuel assistance, emergency food and shelter, and services for youths and seniors.

Representative Dillon was first elected to the General Assembly in 1984. She is an Assistant Majority Leader and serves on the Higher Education and Judiciary committees.