The Social & Youth Services Department provides the following community services:

Berlin Food Pantry

Berlin residents facing financial difficulty may receive an assortment of non-perishable food items from the food pantry once a month. There is a brief intake interview prior to your first visit to help us determine the extent of your need and to see that you are connected to any other programs and services that could help you. The food pantry is supported by donations from individuals and groups throughout the community.

Energy Assistance

Residents meeting the income and assets requirements for the State's energy assistance programs may apply for CEAP through New Opportunities of Greater Meriden. To schedule an appointment, please call 203-235-0278 or fill out an online CEAP Application. Eligible applicants receive direct payments to their heating vendor to help reduce the burden of heating their homes through the winter.

Holiday Assistance

Each holiday season, Berlin Social Services joins with caring community donors to bring extra support and cheer to local families. At Thanksgiving, families receive food items for a holiday meal, and, with the help of the Berlin Lions Club, a hot meal is delivered to elderly and disabled residents who are homebound. During the month of December, children in eligible families receive gifts, along with food for a festive meal. Applications open in October.

"Choices" Program

A trained "CHOICES" counselor is available in the Berlin Social Services Department. This program, sponsored by the State of Connecticut and the North Central Area Agency on Aging, provides information regarding Medicare choices (traditional fee-for-service vs. managed care options).

Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap), or Medicaid (Title XIX). Call the Social Worker for an appointment. This is to assist consumers with information about options and answer questions only.

Case Management Services

Residents in need may receive guidance in applying for State and Federal programs, resolving problems with service providers, gaining access to mental health services, etc. An experienced worker will help you through the complicated and sometimes overwhelming process of gaining access to the available programs.

Assistance with Forms

Senior citizens and disabled individuals who are having a difficult time completing forms required by State and Federal programs or insurance providers can receive help from a worker at Berlin Social Services.

Affordable Housing

Berlin Social Services is the designated agent in the community to verify eligible of persons who wish to purchase homes which have been set aside by developers as affordable housing. After you have identified the lot number of an eligible property which you wish to purchase you may contact Berlin Social Services for an application.