July 25, 2014
State Representative Bob Godfrey joins Danbury Legislators and Governor Malloy in announcing the approval of state funds for nonprofit collaboration incentive projects across the state, including Danbury's Community Action Agency of Western Connecticut.
"I am very pleased to see Governor Malloy making investments in the non-profits that manage energy assistance programs that so many people rely on these days," said State Rep. Bob Godfrey. "Winter is still happening even though it is far away. It will still get cold and families will need warm homes."
"Our nonprofit community plays a vital role in providing assistance to those in need," said Governor Malloy. "With this funding, Danbury's Community Action Agency of Western Connecticut will not only be able to improve services they provide but also give better information on the outcomes of those who take part in their programs."
"These funds will improve service and enhance outcome reporting at the Community Action Agency of Western CT (formerly CACD), and across the community action network," said Michelle James, Executive Director of the Community Action Agency of Western Connecticut. "Information will be transferred to the data warehouse through this bridge and can be accessed by the State Association (CAFCA) and DSS."
The $525,000 was approved at the State Bond Commission meeting on Friday, July 25, 2014 and will allow the Connecticut Association for Community Action to integrate their housing program data and casework demographic information into the large network data warehouse. That unified data network will allow better program analysis to improve services and reduce costs across the non-profit CAP Agency members, and include: the Community Action Committee of Danbury – CACD, the Access Agency, New Opportunities and the Thames Valley Council for Community Action.
"As energy costs continue to rise, we must find more efficient ways to deliver critical energy assistance services and programs," said Rep. David Arconti.
"I'm pleased this bond money will be used to assist community resources like the Community Action Committee of Danbury to continue their good work for the people of the greater Danbury area," Rep. Giegler said. "Investments in community-based social service programs are good for the city and the state and I know these funds will be put to good use."
The Community Action Agency of Western CT administers the Connecticut Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) and the Contingency Heating Assistance Program (CHAP) to help low income households pay their heating bills.