[Ctabs] FW: February 2024 Newsletter

Tue Feb 6 19:10:31 UTC 2024

From: Disability Rights Connecticut <jennifer.jenkins-disrightsct.org at shared1.ccsend.com> 
Sent: Friday, February 2, 2024 1:05 PM
To: info at nfbct.org
Subject: February 2024 Newsletter

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Click here to see newsletter as a webpage  <https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qxfm6vD26yFybvZgiTmDBDYn3vI8Ee7ZdPlveRaU89qVwFswGihtQj1F6Q0Of-ThlIhL55T7cUy62gKW0_OBEYtV9te3J6BXNPuYKy-yR3cU8wmUvZw54NqgCdNG7agOhb3j_xFyu6038h1sLTuasQ==&c=Geryht_jjF2loY6tsYQmnPj_SfpDhzJijE4kj5EoYz221G_Wmtuxkw==&ch=yIC2imJKTSdG9_ghb_AJcJazQeqzJdxYJLe0LarR8JXYt7xQkY93xQ==> 

 <https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qxfm6vD26yFybvZgiTmDBDYn3vI8Ee7ZdPlveRaU89qVwFswGihtQlM44arkkjs3vhnCshBBBr7-C9gWxHFtmqvpBf1NgUzze4VSLd1lrkHBdoTiqc8_j5lls7x-ketRhq6nZ_qh1ehwmgZevaxjDXHfzI6xFWlF&c=Geryht_jjF2loY6tsYQmnPj_SfpDhzJijE4kj5EoYz221G_Wmtuxkw==&ch=yIC2imJKTSdG9_ghb_AJcJazQeqzJdxYJLe0LarR8JXYt7xQkY93xQ==> Click here to donate to DRCT

Disability Rights Connecticut is a statewide non-profit organization with a mission to advocate for the human, civil, and legal rights of people with disabilities in Connecticut.

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DRCT Disability Law Clinic 

DRCT Finishes Up 2nd Year Disability Law Clinic! 

By Mike Whilby, DRCT Strategic Partnerships Manager

On December 6, 2023, Disability Rights Connecticut’s Disability Law Clinic completed the second year in partnership with the University of Connecticut School of Law. DRCT’s Executive Director, Deborah Dorfman, taught the clinic along with guest speakers with assistance by Strategic Partnerships Manager, Mike Whilby.

The Disability Law Clinic provided a unique opportunity for students to learn about substantive disability law and to work at DRCT to assist in providing individual advocacy and work on systemic litigation and other advocacy on behalf of people with disabilities throughout Connecticut. The students worked on cases and matters that addressed a broad range of substantive disability law issues including abuse and neglect of people with disabilities; housing discrimination, access to special education, among other issues. 

During the weekly class portion of the Clinic, the students acquired important advocacy skills needed to represent people with disabilities, such as interviewing; providing counsel and advice; legal research; legal writing; and litigation skills and learned about various substantive areas of disability law.

A big thank you to our guest speakers for the 2023 Fall Disability Law Clinic which included DRCT staff members: Kasey Considine, Mike Whilby, Santina Sciaba-Douglas, and Sheldon Toubman, along with Connecticut Legal Rights Project’s (CLRP) Legal Director, Kirk Lowry. 

Finally, Disability Rights Connecticut would like to thank the University of Connecticut School of Law for their amazing support of the Disability Law Clinic, and we look forward to continued collaborations in 2024.

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Important Dates

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DRCT will be closed on Monday, February 19, 2024, in observance of President's Day.

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Reminders

The  <https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qxfm6vD26yFybvZgiTmDBDYn3vI8Ee7ZdPlveRaU89qVwFswGihtQnnncExeSP400HdLotQf4mDwcdviiGKjDtm71M7059w1gEUSbziiejLi4AEogBbmCu75hbTh1-e70vlAWlWptvTQOivJYoK1rThPvhDFovcTZ9D1PPLUSlac0yztRI8sQQ-_N61rZ6K0VSFvBg9ZdTY=&c=Geryht_jjF2loY6tsYQmnPj_SfpDhzJijE4kj5EoYz221G_Wmtuxkw==&ch=yIC2imJKTSdG9_ghb_AJcJazQeqzJdxYJLe0LarR8JXYt7xQkY93xQ==> CT Council on Developmental Disabilities holds meetings on the second Tuesday of odd-numbered months from 10:00am-1:00 pm.

All meetings are held remotely via MS Teams. Email the Director for the link.

Next Meeting: 

Tuesday, March 12 2024

 <https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qxfm6vD26yFybvZgiTmDBDYn3vI8Ee7ZdPlveRaU89qVwFswGihtQnnncExeSP40tpqVD90xrNxhhOobQrd-6lBL_ZylSst3KA43fTsXXx9DQ3WT68CwUaN_rXhUal4XTSRMdYrwb0OcS8OZHixzzg==&c=Geryht_jjF2loY6tsYQmnPj_SfpDhzJijE4kj5EoYz221G_Wmtuxkw==&ch=yIC2imJKTSdG9_ghb_AJcJazQeqzJdxYJLe0LarR8JXYt7xQkY93xQ==> Keep the Promise Coalition of Connecticut (KTP) holds monthly meetings on the 3rd Wednesday from 10 am-12 pm at CT Valley Hospital (CVH), Page Hall, Rm. 217, Middletown, CT 06457. RSVP to the number on the KTP homepage.

Next Meeting: 

Wednesday, February 21, 2024

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DRCT Board of Directors

*    Kathryn DuPree, President

*    Christina Calabro, Vice President

*    Lisa Nee, Secretary

*    James Ross, Treasurer

*    Paul Acker

*    Bonnie Clark

*    Denise Drummond

*    Sara Liss

*    Luisa Soboleski

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This February, as we celebrate Black History Month, DRCT will remember and honor the achievements of Black leaders throughout history who also had a disability. Black disabled people are multiply marginalized, and recognizing their accomplishments can inform and propel change in societal systems for present and future generations of disabled people around the globe.

Each Thursday during February, DRCT invites you to join us on our social media sites to highlight the impact of such leaders on disability justice. 

 <https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qxfm6vD26yFybvZgiTmDBDYn3vI8Ee7ZdPlveRaU89qVwFswGihtQjI4AVbcYicPMdIf9i2CCTlSXNa8Gr99eyYsYmImUB2JLWIGXgZTsw_zyA6vF78WHPYbsdgV9sBrJfRnxHuTctkHlJuEBpGsYu22TN8AW0TO&c=Geryht_jjF2loY6tsYQmnPj_SfpDhzJijE4kj5EoYz221G_Wmtuxkw==&ch=yIC2imJKTSdG9_ghb_AJcJazQeqzJdxYJLe0LarR8JXYt7xQkY93xQ==>   <https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qxfm6vD26yFybvZgiTmDBDYn3vI8Ee7ZdPlveRaU89qVwFswGihtQlWW5aDIZ_i_NuLO6vmsclKNcoVQ2_7DgIudUphDd658osvwKRmio0rWy-j7QkpSdg2SJmlA2K-OUUGknOXT4IbgzCKnl_AgtT9sC2HAHu86Y5Uru3jIaIVCjxMAqJyrwvyeB95PCxdS&c=Geryht_jjF2loY6tsYQmnPj_SfpDhzJijE4kj5EoYz221G_Wmtuxkw==&ch=yIC2imJKTSdG9_ghb_AJcJazQeqzJdxYJLe0LarR8JXYt7xQkY93xQ==>    <https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qxfm6vD26yFybvZgiTmDBDYn3vI8Ee7ZdPlveRaU89qVwFswGihtQj1F6Q0Of-ThoJZmO2l5DnRK1jS_Y2lwqI0vMF4l7RPpKJG84yAgCG-iVF7_jEOYBArJrzaoGeKp8fgArXXTxzB7hl_Zeksufamb3ihUQ5PbBMwWhKSYwMaWKobTVrBM3eSmUdwr0-H3P_xSZHvN0gg=&c=Geryht_jjF2loY6tsYQmnPj_SfpDhzJijE4kj5EoYz221G_Wmtuxkw==&ch=yIC2imJKTSdG9_ghb_AJcJazQeqzJdxYJLe0LarR8JXYt7xQkY93xQ==>    <https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qxfm6vD26yFybvZgiTmDBDYn3vI8Ee7ZdPlveRaU89qVwFswGihtQlWW5aDIZ_i_cfaL6AMrhIsLpekO-nlLgquSwH6BcbYL88Cjee1TeVjR3SqRrQxBzgOo4B5BbkjCsZNHD5lKDMq4Q7XO1vqpH-EWFC0SYxNk&c=Geryht_jjF2loY6tsYQmnPj_SfpDhzJijE4kj5EoYz221G_Wmtuxkw==&ch=yIC2imJKTSdG9_ghb_AJcJazQeqzJdxYJLe0LarR8JXYt7xQkY93xQ==>  

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DRCT's Mission in Action

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Brown, Goldstein & Levy and Disability Rights Connecticut obtain victory in an ADA lawsuit on behalf of an autistic and deaf client who failed to receive accommodations as an elected official.

 <https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qxfm6vD26yFybvZgiTmDBDYn3vI8Ee7ZdPlveRaU89qVwFswGihtQj1F6Q0Of-ThqtilKAxJokfDYXoybjvfZKr6W8vXPBkBm3tQtHvgUXbbbP_mln4ByM7rz8CPjAMHaPUiflyxoBvAX2s60bbkF8614JyWFUf4BTKrdOLi0_xAxztaiXrNZxdIJl1nvGtYf-BzraZQtL5YKy4LCHgeQAkrWe20N950NgxUwXldjW7yZh4DTfFn3W0RRDRbCyerbDr8_kJAeUkxECzKW73-dXhctkVFO11bpaNbMbMlcri2h0na1S6kghrHPHU5lkVnomVqucDjqSS0n9FcHovlaA==&c=Geryht_jjF2loY6tsYQmnPj_SfpDhzJijE4kj5EoYz221G_Wmtuxkw==&ch=yIC2imJKTSdG9_ghb_AJcJazQeqzJdxYJLe0LarR8JXYt7xQkY93xQ==> Click here to read the joint press release 

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40th Anniversary of the Client Assistance Program

This year marks the 40th anniversary of The Client Assistance Program, or CAP, which began on February 22, 1984. The  <https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qxfm6vD26yFybvZgiTmDBDYn3vI8Ee7ZdPlveRaU89qVwFswGihtQsepba6IYYhXZedzkhKdz_VcdLOchJhhdART8U9W0ilHhraR9LNdknSU5umZbkyiqIqSLAh-D-qXYGuTzUYMzs9vWnnCytiXUwhJv6KZEEBKm1oiBH2-mP-uvzdx-aIz8g==&c=Geryht_jjF2loY6tsYQmnPj_SfpDhzJijE4kj5EoYz221G_Wmtuxkw==&ch=yIC2imJKTSdG9_ghb_AJcJazQeqzJdxYJLe0LarR8JXYt7xQkY93xQ==> CAP at Disability Rights Connecticut, assists applicants and consumers of Connecticut’s two Vocational Rehabilitation agencies. CAP can help individuals with disabilities who are working with the  <https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qxfm6vD26yFybvZgiTmDBDYn3vI8Ee7ZdPlveRaU89qVwFswGihtQj1F6Q0Of-ThPZFanxQFftK90Q_4o4LoQzb1XUKHrYRng2yXkpn5Z08Gv7yhaSStYBgjldg7yFJI4R5ty1z97zGOmzQD-snoVFz7RuS7sn5GEyKG7pURGLEGx7XcqthpDY2_-plBgI6RRf1FJ4u0PhA=&c=Geryht_jjF2loY6tsYQmnPj_SfpDhzJijE4kj5EoYz221G_Wmtuxkw==&ch=yIC2imJKTSdG9_ghb_AJcJazQeqzJdxYJLe0LarR8JXYt7xQkY93xQ==> Bureau of Rehabilitation Services (BRS) or the  <https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qxfm6vD26yFybvZgiTmDBDYn3vI8Ee7ZdPlveRaU89qVwFswGihtQj1F6Q0Of-ThKWV-Y0h8TrIKamyaMKkQOaVsVjzfesx10D_23tk28dfYI80anIUQyksHw8n5P5kTOlOI_WooQIv3WhmJYDTTtEbhjZG-VwD_aCOr3P1JHKCdzLzrqdMIsmfIIgYjpVeZNtitzFgC8RkmxQm2ZblKN5rL3vjIZ_3zns65J3SjrpADuF-34f038C4AEQyWZ6Cm&c=Geryht_jjF2loY6tsYQmnPj_SfpDhzJijE4kj5EoYz221G_Wmtuxkw==&ch=yIC2imJKTSdG9_ghb_AJcJazQeqzJdxYJLe0LarR8JXYt7xQkY93xQ==> Bureau of Education and Services for the Blind (BESB) understand their rights and responsibilities in applying for and receiving vocational rehabilitation services. CAP supports those who are applying for services, already getting services, or have been denied services from BRS or BESB. 

The CAP can explain how BRS and BESB work and what these agencies can and can’t do for you. CAP advocates might offer you self-advocacy advice about your right to appeal a decision or individual advocacy to assist you in asserting your rights. All services from the CAP are free and confidential. 

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Mental Health Spotlight

Time to Talk Day

Time to Talk Day is a call for more conversation about mental health. Happening every year on the first Thursday in February, it’s a day for friends, families, communities, and workplaces to come together to talk, listen, and change lives.

The more conversations we have, the better life is for everyone. Talking about mental health isn’t always easy and sometimes it’s even harder to say how you really feel. But a conversation has the power to change lives. 

Time to Talk Day is the perfect opportunity to start a conversation about mental health.

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Community Engagement

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Communities in Action Event at the White House

On January 10, 2024, DRCT's Deputy Executive Director, Santina Sciaba-Douglas, had the honor of attending the White House’s Communities in Action, Building a Better America event.

This event is one in a series of events hosted by the White House for individual states, and for this occasion, the White House invited legislative and nonprofit leaders from Connecticut and Rhode Island. Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo; Connecticut Sen. Chris Murphy; Brenda Mallory, Chair of the White House Council on Environmental Quality; Greg Jackson, Deputy Director of the first ever White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention; Gene Sperling the America Rescue Plan Coordinator; and Rhode Island Congressman Gabe Amo addressed the attendees and highlighted how the Biden-Harris American Rescue Plan, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, CHIPS and Science ACT and the Inflation Reduction Act have impacted the states of RI and CT.

The attendees were invited to speak for a few minutes to share how these initiatives have impacted their work. Speakers addressed the impact of their work on healthcare, unionized labor, agriculture, early childhood, healthcare, gun prevention advocacy, food insecurity, diversity, and inclusion initiatives, to name a few. These individuals highlighted how the funding through all of the aforementioned Acts had either expanded health facilities and added mental health providers, increased tuition assistance funds, facilitated unionized agreements, expanded food services, increased training funds for teachers, improved bridges and roadways, again to name a few.

Attorney Sciaba-Douglas was selected to speak and indicated how the Biden-Harris Covid-19 initiatives had enabled DRCT to advocate for PPE and vaccines to be prioritized for distribution to individuals with disabilities living in institutions or congregate settings as the pandemic had run amok in those settings; secondly, since one of the items raised by the speakers that day was the efforts by the Biden-Harris administration to ensure that CT households are able to access affordable high-speed internet, DRCT indicated that since the pandemic people with disabilities have increased in numbers in the economy because of flexible remote work opportunities and as we think about strengthening our economy we should not forget that people with disabilities are strong contributors to that economy if they have the flexibility and the technology to participate. 

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Community Engagement

Disability Rights Connecticut works with individuals with disabilities, their families, and community partners to understand common goals, priorities, and visions. DRCT staff provides outreach and training to establish and maintain community relationships and implement strategies that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion.

DRCT can provide training, upon request, on issues related to our focus areas. If you believe you, or a group you are a member of, could benefit from training, please contact our Strategic Partnerships Manager, Michael Whilby at 860-856-4158 or  <mailto:Michael.Whilby at DisRightsCT.org> Michael.Whilby at DisRightsCT.org

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Get Involved

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Waiting for In-Home Services for your Child with Autism on HUSKY A?

We would like to talk to parents or guardians of kids who (1) are on HUSKY A, (2) have no other health insurance, (3) have a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder and—

*    Have been waiting for months for a Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) or Behavioral Intervention Plan (BIP)

*    Have the FBA and a BIP completed but can’t actually get services started in the home

*    Have had services in the home but there was an interruption and you could not get services restarted 

*    Have not been able to get Intensive In-Home Child & Adolescent Psychiatric Services (IICAPS) that your provider has recommended for your child or you got those services but they were then terminated before your provider thinks they should have been, or

*    Have been denied IICAPS services because your child has a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder.

 <https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qxfm6vD26yFybvZgiTmDBDYn3vI8Ee7ZdPlveRaU89qVwFswGihtQtYKGVKKv7jjaV7pzOHMfpQTBnIGsSAd4kNBVczDNhWqOCKFEsOSP-YVT1BpWJ_F1JPe7t79LVeuc0ch255Jr09VpJzB1OCeVVKtd5wwZO2bo4x4415up1KP0V2DcsMLKzfh3q2PjMSBW7HhxYVAXmtyBa-6XcBoTpLBLDh44MZvUYqnAUPgdpg=&c=Geryht_jjF2loY6tsYQmnPj_SfpDhzJijE4kj5EoYz221G_Wmtuxkw==&ch=yIC2imJKTSdG9_ghb_AJcJazQeqzJdxYJLe0LarR8JXYt7xQkY93xQ==> Click For More Information 

If this sounds like you, please contact Sheldon Toubman from Disability Rights CT at 475-345-3169 or  <mailto:Sheldon.Toubman at DisRightsCT.Org> Sheldon.Toubman at DisRightsCT.org. 

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Are you over 65?

If you: 

1.    Are 65 or over, or disabled under the Social Security Administration definition

2.    Need Medicaid but are over the income or asset limits for HUSKY C, and 

3.    Believe these limits are too low and want to do something about it, 

Please contact: Sheldon Toubman at Disability Rights Connecticut at (475) 345-3169 or  <mailto:Sheldon.Toubman at DisRightsCT.Org> Sheldon.Toubman at DisRightsCT.org.

 <https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qxfm6vD26yFybvZgiTmDBDYn3vI8Ee7ZdPlveRaU89qVwFswGihtQsVfHDGVFMjyxrkKvS684H-l-AgkG_rWPPbMtOclvvjJEBcnbL7L_fyd2ClCvD57A4p_DZ3mR_NfB3n9ceYF7KSl2b1p15HA2jDzu4W1mdLU4Pc0gZuVb6XCQzv_nkO0lKWVjGzjBdftdTrPIlONCWf3fyFz3G1yrc0Sprx9N962MN4Jktc9ip8=&c=Geryht_jjF2loY6tsYQmnPj_SfpDhzJijE4kj5EoYz221G_Wmtuxkw==&ch=yIC2imJKTSdG9_ghb_AJcJazQeqzJdxYJLe0LarR8JXYt7xQkY93xQ==> Click here for more information

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Si Ud: 

1.         Tiene 65 años o más, o está discapacitado según la definición de la Administración del Seguro Social.

2. Necesita Medicaid pero supera los límites de ingresos o bienes de HUSKY C, y 

3. Cree que estos límites son demasiado bajos y quiere hacer algo al respecto, 

Por favor póngase en contacto con: Sheldon Toubman, Disability Rights Connecticut, en (475) 345-3169 o  <mailto:Sheldon.Toubman at DisRightsCT.Org> Sheldon.Toubman at DisRightsCT.org.

 <https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qxfm6vD26yFybvZgiTmDBDYn3vI8Ee7ZdPlveRaU89qVwFswGihtQsVfHDGVFMjygpgEHymiZEiESWnB0sPpxNZqr_gmj6CY9G8IiBgjLzve9QMLOUFMM5eebV9DBHdwTB5JVbz7MGEdbrbMetRhEkC6TgEQ0-0XxQ80vkMIZL0EHBZBrqmGc8ozhEv0HaUL_arddlC6pVF8jldgDyyUgVu9rFrk0G-UgJCD4DTgm3Y=&c=Geryht_jjF2loY6tsYQmnPj_SfpDhzJijE4kj5EoYz221G_Wmtuxkw==&ch=yIC2imJKTSdG9_ghb_AJcJazQeqzJdxYJLe0LarR8JXYt7xQkY93xQ==> Haga clic aquí para obtener más información

COVID Corner

The Public Health Emergency ended on

May 11, 2023

What You Should Know

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*    Is Covid gone? No. Ending the COVID-19 emergency declarations does not mean the virus is gone. You still should talk to your healthcare provider about getting vaccinated, including the updated vaccine and boosters, use at-home tests, stay home when you feel sick, and wear KN95 or N95 masks when respiratory viruses are circulating at high levels in your community and also practice good hygiene.

*    The Connecticut Department of Public Health ended its homebound COVID-19 vaccination program on June 30, 2023. After this date, COVID-19 vaccines and boosters will be provided to individuals who are homebound similar to the way the seasonal influenza (flu) vaccine and other preventative health care services are offered. 

*    Individuals who are homebound should contact their health care provider to receive these services.

Summary of recent changes (last updated October 6, 2023):

*    The updated 2023–2024 formulation of Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine is recommended for people ages 12 years and older as follows:

*    Initial vaccination: 2 doses of updated (2023–2024 Formula) Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine

*    Previously vaccinated with any Original monovalent or bivalent COVID-19 vaccine (Moderna, Novavax, Pfizer-BioNTech, Janssen): 1 dose of updated (2023–2024 Formula) Novavax Vaccine

*    People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised may receive 1 or more additional updated (2023–2024 Formula) Novavax vaccine doses.

*    People ages 12 years and older have the option of receiving either the updated (2023–2024 Formula) mRNA (Moderna, Pfizer-BioNTech) or updated (2023–2024 Formula) Novavax vaccine.

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Updates from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention

As of January 26, 2023, the Food and Drug Administration announced it is not currently authorizing the use of Evushield (monoclonal antibody treatment used before people are exposed to COVID-19) because it is unlikely to be active against the majority of COVID-19 variants circulating in the United States.

As a result, on January 27, 2023, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released an updated report recommending that people who are immunocompromised, and their household members and close contacts, take additional precautions including but not limited to:

1.  Getting an updated COVID-19 vaccine

2.  Improve ventilation and spend time outdoors

3.  Learn about testing locations and treatment options before getting exposed or sick

4.  Get tested if you've been exposed or have symptoms

5.  Wash your hands often

6.  Wear a well-fitting mask and maintain distance in crowded spaces

 <https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qxfm6vD26yFybvZgiTmDBDYn3vI8Ee7ZdPlveRaU89qVwFswGihtQsVfHDGVFMjysLgzpKiU1Fq6bFmPzbQ-v56dYn9fJLjKbJRbktW_kRusCF3fP98XcgVXi8WbcTL1Gcknvu3UkRYia89UaX3YA2I9yuWtUXZSvNpJwL_Pqyth_zoirt6oDCJ5PsfnEn4jtSP38Asmv87THPZXi7k-EcWCjbVn4X0UtAlHVVcWtFAgGVTyMfkjZZ5gp0vuKzlU&c=Geryht_jjF2loY6tsYQmnPj_SfpDhzJijE4kj5EoYz221G_Wmtuxkw==&ch=yIC2imJKTSdG9_ghb_AJcJazQeqzJdxYJLe0LarR8JXYt7xQkY93xQ==> Read more here

  <https://imgssl.constantcontact.com/letters/images/1101116784221/S.gif> 

HHS Launches Bridge Access Program to Safeguard Free 

COVID-19 Vaccination for Uninsured and Underinsured Adults

Administered through the CDC, the program is available now.

The Bridge Access Program officially launches, providing continued free coverage for the estimated 25-30 million adults who would have otherwise lost access to affordable COVID-19 vaccines now that the distribution of vaccines has transitioned to the commercial market. Doses will be available in some locations this week, with distribution increasing in the coming weeks.

The CDC has contracted with more than 20,000 retail pharmacy locations nationwide to provide cost-free COVID-19 vaccines to people without insurance, or whose insurance requires a co-pay for in-network coverage. The CDC will additionally ship and fund administration of vaccines to public health providers designated by state and local health departments – which could include more than 1,400  <https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qxfm6vD26yFybvZgiTmDBDYn3vI8Ee7ZdPlveRaU89qVwFswGihtQqYYJfosSPtti95gFNnT7zlM8iMzkVlmjO9pHe8YpSqdujzjxXIhIhM_pF85r9OB6a0IOHdTYRSTd4ajS7M2B2OJ5ZtU9C7iFJhPaal4KoGygLq8nZ2PZltqnAYHEKcbAHTJfGOUndPMQ3KLlMMRIXFO0A0Gady2ROjoLtBjgA7qtubh4j0mVRxX9kQM6vCBLg==&c=Geryht_jjF2loY6tsYQmnPj_SfpDhzJijE4kj5EoYz221G_Wmtuxkw==&ch=yIC2imJKTSdG9_ghb_AJcJazQeqzJdxYJLe0LarR8JXYt7xQkY93xQ==> HRSA-supported health centers and 12,000 other vaccine providers.

The Bridge Access Program is temporary and scheduled to end in December 2024.

For more information on the Bridge Access Program, visit  <https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qxfm6vD26yFybvZgiTmDBDYn3vI8Ee7ZdPlveRaU89qVwFswGihtQqYYJfosSPttN8ndLCAcT_Ky9wv0doIa7LXIvr32jTJiBtPx02hgWxZo_H0KXUyztl2rJoDOyDG3azmqCDuUILCFYq_FS4m0LEO15DWhEYAjYcZu1iLSIh6_ooJXgZENQRZg50mRSssM&c=Geryht_jjF2loY6tsYQmnPj_SfpDhzJijE4kj5EoYz221G_Wmtuxkw==&ch=yIC2imJKTSdG9_ghb_AJcJazQeqzJdxYJLe0LarR8JXYt7xQkY93xQ==> CDC’s website. Later this week,  <https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qxfm6vD26yFybvZgiTmDBDYn3vI8Ee7ZdPlveRaU89qVwFswGihtQqYYJfosSPttWR33JtwsGnOKNeIoNuIiLJ86HOHwHss9u3F1_0915OGUgelzDJZdFMHANGO3symOgR9q8thNLnJzl4rsRQWCKg==&c=Geryht_jjF2loY6tsYQmnPj_SfpDhzJijE4kj5EoYz221G_Wmtuxkw==&ch=yIC2imJKTSdG9_ghb_AJcJazQeqzJdxYJLe0LarR8JXYt7xQkY93xQ==> vaccines.gov will be updated with COVID-19 vaccine availability as the vaccine is distributed.

COVID HOME TESTS

Beginning on Sept. 25, every U.S. household can again place an order to receive four more free COVID-19 rapid tests delivered to their home by visiting COVIDTests.gov. 

Additionally, before you discard any “expired” test kits you have, please check here to see if the expiration dates of your COVID-19 tests have been extended.   <https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qxfm6vD26yFybvZgiTmDBDYn3vI8Ee7ZdPlveRaU89qVwFswGihtQqYYJfosSPttipGqaOz3SQUTHBu6s2sGCpUKynYKZUpcnbh_vsFPD6F7vj9kpR0b31wIobw5aMCnLnpOwI8HUxzjnmzR80KV-o4RaomYcGQeaBi7t3tbv8vE91e8k7vUi4-cPn5-_eCCxGrRRAoXWjLbARzZIaLFtxiAZNRyLTdSVfzWwT0MGuHgIWmrxNhn5oH3x_x95v5P99erivynRdjb7Eh-k-UkyQ==&c=Geryht_jjF2loY6tsYQmnPj_SfpDhzJijE4kj5EoYz221G_Wmtuxkw==&ch=yIC2imJKTSdG9_ghb_AJcJazQeqzJdxYJLe0LarR8JXYt7xQkY93xQ==> See the full list of extended expiration dates

  <https://imgssl.constantcontact.com/letters/images/1101116784221/S.gif> 

Additional COVID Guidance

*    COVID-19 by County:  <https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qxfm6vD26yFybvZgiTmDBDYn3vI8Ee7ZdPlveRaU89qVwFswGihtQtT_AhaafKbYnLSut2LxWQSeggvhQUMUK-MJGJewwUMUInKV9j7AX1YZbRrxjbn9H7aOgZFIH43lrm5Y5qc9OZKjyy0sUc0V9rDWb_xyb2h-UrxZ-3e--FSlQg1ys9FixFsp5J21HKO5p3LTdGtMmRIxbxiPlfLTbe0uWEAQpI0Z&c=Geryht_jjF2loY6tsYQmnPj_SfpDhzJijE4kj5EoYz221G_Wmtuxkw==&ch=yIC2imJKTSdG9_ghb_AJcJazQeqzJdxYJLe0LarR8JXYt7xQkY93xQ==> https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/covid-by-county.html 

*    At all hospital admission levels: 

*    Stay up to date on vaccination.

*    Maintain ventilation improvements.

*    Avoid contact with people who have suspected or confirmed COVID-19.

*    Follow recommendations for isolation if you have suspected or confirmed COVID-19.

*    Follow the recommendations for what to do if you are exposed to someone with COVID-19.

*    If you are at high risk of getting very sick, talk with a healthcare provider about additional prevention actions.

*    Understanding Exposure Risks:  <https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qxfm6vD26yFybvZgiTmDBDYn3vI8Ee7ZdPlveRaU89qVwFswGihtQtT_AhaafKbYzBEGDef2zVUYZET0lpO94waclNyJjwsJnySmCsduWtEktHtCiBLFKi6eA7ThBXBE_Yad3G0j9u8UjYu9uPwRuURNvf7vIasvpIGoxOxFva7BjtxhW0cgjTajR5G2lU4KGJJD3nh5zYrdy_wz_CQCKEKlECDk6wfW&c=Geryht_jjF2loY6tsYQmnPj_SfpDhzJijE4kj5EoYz221G_Wmtuxkw==&ch=yIC2imJKTSdG9_ghb_AJcJazQeqzJdxYJLe0LarR8JXYt7xQkY93xQ==> https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/risks-exposure.html 

*    When to Isolate:  <https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qxfm6vD26yFybvZgiTmDBDYn3vI8Ee7ZdPlveRaU89qVwFswGihtQtT_AhaafKbYJWGhtpMAhG5Tnvxy7SDnM8FsnvJyYhhxv3yB-rH2MFdoGLVXCHk_E8LqRBaoRcUhgiA35jh2D9fiBZhZmwHuccYPlB8pjyfJC8Ma_pDw5SsMMuUnz9o-eJ3SRFblG-nKwokWo6pFBjjnuC54qFouWg==&c=Geryht_jjF2loY6tsYQmnPj_SfpDhzJijE4kj5EoYz221G_Wmtuxkw==&ch=yIC2imJKTSdG9_ghb_AJcJazQeqzJdxYJLe0LarR8JXYt7xQkY93xQ==> https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/isolation.html 

*    COVID Prevention Actions:  <https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qxfm6vD26yFybvZgiTmDBDYn3vI8Ee7ZdPlveRaU89qVwFswGihtQtT_AhaafKbYg-8-LpFHV2Bvzddv7i74Im6eMFbCnLTffuktpryWG7IVHFRQ1nWtchO0Kp6S47odBk4SjOt2xWOGANxCcl1fyCiXS3aLjIMNWsIIYn_bUsD-3RHRWsLkkH1l8H5J0P-7m66-ZWOmpkssai_riELyAzejL1OhlOJbsP4R2na0-dqo6nQlUTtFzUi5dA5OWdVh&c=Geryht_jjF2loY6tsYQmnPj_SfpDhzJijE4kj5EoYz221G_Wmtuxkw==&ch=yIC2imJKTSdG9_ghb_AJcJazQeqzJdxYJLe0LarR8JXYt7xQkY93xQ==> https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/prevention.html#anchor_1658432586589 

*    Factors That Raise Your Risk of Getting Very Sick from COVID-19:  <https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qxfm6vD26yFybvZgiTmDBDYn3vI8Ee7ZdPlveRaU89qVwFswGihtQtT_AhaafKbYfC7Anw9WxKO2C2YTlZsLAwzLHfUuM92vTc-l2YlVnBvCq9ad1ko9JHcTSs-37EQXLNnEjh4rnxYQrcHilj1QxRmYvWjqigDe_y9xrimTN2mFOwACHAPgNQWu8mw4tfl7S2OOYWRTBlLScfXCz7NQibCWq2VD6jMVZUdK7shheis=&c=Geryht_jjF2loY6tsYQmnPj_SfpDhzJijE4kj5EoYz221G_Wmtuxkw==&ch=yIC2imJKTSdG9_ghb_AJcJazQeqzJdxYJLe0LarR8JXYt7xQkY93xQ==> https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/risks-getting-very-sick.html 

*    People ages 50 years or older

*    Immunocompromised or Weakened Immune System

*    Underlying Health Conditions

*    Information about Long COVID:  <https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qxfm6vD26yFybvZgiTmDBDYn3vI8Ee7ZdPlveRaU89qVwFswGihtQtT_AhaafKbYcpOcC3UfidvY9Zv8NHdKsdjtQoQ9hGLyGl8MLJNT3fg1ND7g3zq-Cj-Q0O4KJMVE4-Fu2b2QwpkrH5_afyQSKWXItUevCVRH8MTeF9hBX565TJjLSVG4U6uRYKdOrsctT1S9MM7daSv6L3b325xxpw==&c=Geryht_jjF2loY6tsYQmnPj_SfpDhzJijE4kj5EoYz221G_Wmtuxkw==&ch=yIC2imJKTSdG9_ghb_AJcJazQeqzJdxYJLe0LarR8JXYt7xQkY93xQ==> https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/long-term-effects/index.html 

*    It’s estimated about 14% (approximately 1/7th of population) of adults in US have long-covid

*    It’s estimated that approximately 28% (over ¼) of adults who have had COVID developed long-COVID

  <https://imgssl.constantcontact.com/letters/images/1101116784221/S.gif> 

Protect Yourself & Get Boosted!

 <https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qxfm6vD26yFybvZgiTmDBDYn3vI8Ee7ZdPlveRaU89qVwFswGihtQqYYJfosSPttufk7M6ZmwVsHB06YxFn_TcDue_Gj5s0CrnMeK6X3g3Xtg1JAGE8C3KFs2hre3pyvfONzu_bx0yr9dvPWMeBM6ZlergqEMBwNKRCba5ABCL8sm5RWzMAe6w==&c=Geryht_jjF2loY6tsYQmnPj_SfpDhzJijE4kj5EoYz221G_Wmtuxkw==&ch=yIC2imJKTSdG9_ghb_AJcJazQeqzJdxYJLe0LarR8JXYt7xQkY93xQ==> Click here for more vaccination resources 

Learn more about COVID-19 vaccines for children with disabilities

 <https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qxfm6vD26yFybvZgiTmDBDYn3vI8Ee7ZdPlveRaU89qVwFswGihtQmLtRcmbiwtHs2vqQBnfgISTaddS79ZUCcMoeWMRJY-N-SVO6l8aT9LJJCCVSsHoOR69z6XpnwsyK8-EboG7WpLhZiXhgsn-alQeQTyWvOROMw34_0-dIhHrraUpVxiKobQAbc5hznPr2H8zMDMoDm00qME0dhNtDzZtZ9DXNIC0&c=Geryht_jjF2loY6tsYQmnPj_SfpDhzJijE4kj5EoYz221G_Wmtuxkw==&ch=yIC2imJKTSdG9_ghb_AJcJazQeqzJdxYJLe0LarR8JXYt7xQkY93xQ==> Click here to learn more about COVID-19 vaccines for children with disabilities 

The federal government will continue to distribute COVID-19 vaccine to healthcare providers such as retail pharmacies, hospitals, and physician practices. After the Public Health Emergency ends, the federal government will continue to distribute all available vaccines in their inventory, free to U.S. residents, until that inventory is depleted or expires.

To find a vaccine provider near you with COVID-19 vaccines and Flu vaccines, visit:  <https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qxfm6vD26yFybvZgiTmDBDYn3vI8Ee7ZdPlveRaU89qVwFswGihtQtT_AhaafKbYNcJVwN345Xmugxkh6hqCsuAq7etJO0b473Pq3pnTrL57QM0NoaLjIhE6otvB5E0nRN246xa4scoboTU_QpO5XOqVHEQjivMV&c=Geryht_jjF2loY6tsYQmnPj_SfpDhzJijE4kj5EoYz221G_Wmtuxkw==&ch=yIC2imJKTSdG9_ghb_AJcJazQeqzJdxYJLe0LarR8JXYt7xQkY93xQ==> Vaccines.gov 

Open and Affirming Statement:

Disability Rights Connecticut 

is open and affirming and welcomes all people regardless of race, gender, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression, nationality,

or any disability.

  <https://files.constantcontact.com/939dde8c601/aab5671e-ed78-41fa-ab56-86892e8734dc.png?rdr=true> 

Disability Rights Connecticut

75 Charter Oak Ave., 1-101

Hartford, CT 06106

800-842-7303 (toll-free in CT)

860-422-4220 (voice)

860-509-4992 (videophone)

860-296-0055 (fax)

 <mailto:info at disrightsct.org> info at disrightsct.org

 <https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qxfm6vD26yFybvZgiTmDBDYn3vI8Ee7ZdPlveRaU89qVwFswGihtQtBNtcm1JgORpOiWxSoNNLJQ-vpBd04VMyD82x5hoMdYOVB5KweTfA--EmiRAytDO2yoaE7hdohl8I8rtSOjYNC9S3GZt7eUKg==&c=Geryht_jjF2loY6tsYQmnPj_SfpDhzJijE4kj5EoYz221G_Wmtuxkw==&ch=yIC2imJKTSdG9_ghb_AJcJazQeqzJdxYJLe0LarR8JXYt7xQkY93xQ==> www.disrightsct.org

An Affiliate of the National

Disability Rights Network.

  <https://imgssl.constantcontact.com/letters/images/1101116784221/S.gif> 

 <https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qxfm6vD26yFybvZgiTmDBDYn3vI8Ee7ZdPlveRaU89qVwFswGihtQv0SkHOYH72ZMuRClZTXIsKAB2D-uEMtCMQ53ElMgbTiEQvxSFbE2ByJoCAJkAIyrqiF4KBo32DmKR3b96lQTgdWmjuFAruvHoBxBrLcZcCrSRNf0Q0juY0=&c=Geryht_jjF2loY6tsYQmnPj_SfpDhzJijE4kj5EoYz221G_Wmtuxkw==&ch=yIC2imJKTSdG9_ghb_AJcJazQeqzJdxYJLe0LarR8JXYt7xQkY93xQ==>   <https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qxfm6vD26yFybvZgiTmDBDYn3vI8Ee7ZdPlveRaU89qVwFswGihtQlWW5aDIZ_i_NuLO6vmsclKNcoVQ2_7DgIudUphDd658osvwKRmio0rWy-j7QkpSdg2SJmlA2K-OUUGknOXT4IbgzCKnl_AgtT9sC2HAHu86Y5Uru3jIaIVCjxMAqJyrwvyeB95PCxdS&c=Geryht_jjF2loY6tsYQmnPj_SfpDhzJijE4kj5EoYz221G_Wmtuxkw==&ch=yIC2imJKTSdG9_ghb_AJcJazQeqzJdxYJLe0LarR8JXYt7xQkY93xQ==>    <https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qxfm6vD26yFybvZgiTmDBDYn3vI8Ee7ZdPlveRaU89qVwFswGihtQv0SkHOYH72ZXyPUFFWXE6pw_zffCNjTXEU0PSAvrTEIJhTYX9a9eP5yJh-TUDGwODqQvWo05JjIGCD9TM8Qd2j7iLRQJ2Ook3pqBeQkvIEwYALXC8xJZ9xn7lSDgpQjR5U-WwYbou7rM8jgDxRNip4=&c=Geryht_jjF2loY6tsYQmnPj_SfpDhzJijE4kj5EoYz221G_Wmtuxkw==&ch=yIC2imJKTSdG9_ghb_AJcJazQeqzJdxYJLe0LarR8JXYt7xQkY93xQ==>    <https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qxfm6vD26yFybvZgiTmDBDYn3vI8Ee7ZdPlveRaU89qVwFswGihtQlWW5aDIZ_i_cfaL6AMrhIsLpekO-nlLgquSwH6BcbYL88Cjee1TeVjR3SqRrQxBzgOo4B5BbkjCsZNHD5lKDMq4Q7XO1vqpH-EWFC0SYxNk&c=Geryht_jjF2loY6tsYQmnPj_SfpDhzJijE4kj5EoYz221G_Wmtuxkw==&ch=yIC2imJKTSdG9_ghb_AJcJazQeqzJdxYJLe0LarR8JXYt7xQkY93xQ==>  

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