The focus of the Social Services Department is to coordinate existing federal, state, regional and local services, to increase community awareness of these services and to develop new programs to meet the needs of Granby residents. For more information about any of the following programs, contact Director Sandra Yost at 860-844-5351. Office hours are weekdays, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Elderly (65+) or Disabled Homeowners Tax Relief: Applications are accepted through May 15. Income qualified applicants may receive up to $1,250 for married couples, and up to $1,000 for singles. A SSA 1099, or its equivalent, is required to be provided by each applicant. To apply contact the Assessor’s office at 860-844-5312.
Elderly (65+) or Disabled Renters Rebate: Applications will be accepted beginning April 1 through Oct. 1. Applicant must have turned 65 years of age by the end of 2023. Persons under 65 years of age who are receiving Social Security Disability are also eligible.
Renters Requirements (not comprehensive):
· Must have rented in Granby, CT during 2023 and currently reside in Connecticut.
· Provide proof of rent paid in 2023. (Receipts from landlord or cancelled checks).
· Provide proof of actual bills paid in 2023 for electricity, gas, water, and fuel.
· Bring in proof of income, for example, Form SSA 1099, pensions, etc.
Granby Local Assistance Program: Granby residents facing financial hardship may access funds once in a 12-month period. The gross household income cannot exceed 60 percent of State Median Income unless extenuating circumstances can be documented.
Affordable Connectivity Plan: This U.S. government program run by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) helps low-income households pay for internet service and connected devices like a laptop or tablet. Find out more by visiting affordableconnectivity.gov
Child Welfare Resources: Tools for supporting virtual times for families and child welfare workforce tools are available through the Child Welfare Information Gateway at cwig@communications.childwelfare.gov
Domestic Violence: If you need help or just someone to talk to, please visit CTSafeConnect.org or call or text 888-774-2900. Advocates available 24/7.
Mental Health and Emergencies: If you are experiencing a true medical emergency or crisis, please call 911 or proceed to your nearest emergency room. You can also access mobile crisis services by dialing 211.
Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273- 8255
When it Builds Up, Talk it Out: Through this campaign launched by United Way 211 and DCF, you can talk to a professional by calling 833-258-5011 or talkitoutct.com
State of Connecticut Department of Social Services: For assistance with applying for benefits, such as Medicare Savings Programs, Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as Food Stamps, call 860-724-6443 x 275 for the Benefits Enrollment Center.
Senior Job Bank: A nonprofit organization dedicated to helping people over the age of 50 find part-time work in the West Hartford community and surrounding towns. Jobseekers are connected with part-time job opportunities in businesses, municipalities and nonprofits as well as per diem work with individuals. Visit seniorsjobbankct.org or call 860-521-3210.
Granby Food Pantry: Located at 248 Salmon Brook Street, Food Pantry hours are Tuesday, 10:30 a.m. to Noon and Thursday, 2–3:30 p.m. Before using the pantry, you must qualify with the Town of Granby Social Services Department. An appointment is necessary; call 860-844-5350 to schedule.
Waste Not Want Not Community Kitchen: Free meal available as drive up to pick up service every Wednesday, 3–5 p.m. at South Congregational Church, 242 Salmon Brook St. The meal is free, but an offering is always welcome.
Mobile FoodShare: Every other Tuesday, 1:30–2 p.m. Call for 2024 dates. Park behind South Congregational Church only and remember to bring your own bags. For more locations or weather cancellations visit ctfoodbank.org/get-help/connecticut-food-banks-mobile-pantry-schedule
Life Church Hope 4 Life Food Pantry: Located at 23 Griffin Road, the food pantry is open on Wednesdays, 2 to 6 p.m. to members of Life Church as well as anyone who is in need. No qualification necessary. Please bring your own bags. For more information, please call the church office at 860-653-3308.
Open Cupboard Pantry at Granby Congregational Church, North Campus: Located at 219 North Granby Road. Distributions are on Fridays, 3–4 p.m. on a drive through basis. Please enter the church parking lot via north entrance on Stratton Road. Call the church at 860-653-4537 with any questions.
SNAP: CT Foodbank will continue to facilitate SNAP applications by phone. For help with SNAP, call 860-856-4357. This process will take approximately 30 minutes and CT Foodbank will mail you a packet to sign and return.