Program Deadlines Loom: Energy Efficiency Program and Jobs for Independence
Free Energy Assessment and Energy Efficiency Improvements Available
SEVCA is providing home-visits to install energy-efficiency improvements to area low- and moderate-income households in order to help reduce their energy bills. A Vermont Community Energy Partnership Program grant has made it possible for these free services, which include:
- Direct installation of efficient products: LEDs, advanced power strips, low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators, pipe wrap for domestic hot water, and caulking and weatherstripping.
- Identification of energy-saving opportunities: assessment of inefficient refrigerators, freezers, and clothes washers; opportunities for reducing heating and cooling costs; eligibility for energy-efficient mobile home replacements; eligibility for the Weatherization Assistance Program or other programs
Interested Windham and Windsor County residents should call John Nielson at (800) 464-9951, ext. 138 for more information and to schedule a home visit. Current funding ends in December, so don’t delay!
Want Help Getting a Job? Hurry to Sign Up Before "Jobs for Independence" Recruitment Ends!
Vermont’s SNAP Program, called 3SquaresVT and administered by the Department for Children and Families (DCF), was awarded a three‐year $8.9 million dollar grant from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to develop a job readiness and training pilot program for people getting or eligible to get SNAP benefits.
Vermont’s pilot, called Jobs for Independence (JFI), will be closing the application process in December, so potential participants are urged to apply now! So far, SEVCA has enrolled 367 participants, and statewide, 75% of the expected 3,000 participants have been enrolled.
JFI can help people even if they: don’t have stable housing; have a mental health issue; are struggling with substance abuse or recovery; or have a criminal record. Vermonters who get or are eligible for 3SquaresVT benefits may be eligible to participate. Those selected for the program could get help to:
- Resolve issues that may be keeping them from work (e.g., criminal record, mental health, substance abuse, or unstable housing)
- Find new or better jobs
- Gain work skills and knowledge
- Pay for things they need to work like car repairs and work clothes
- Earn the Governor’s Career Ready Certificate at the Community College of Vermont (CCV)
- Achieve industry‐recognized certification (e.g., in CDL or IT Software)
3SquaresVT participants who are interested in JFI should call SEVCA to see if they qualify. In Windham County, contact Elizabeth McEwen at 802 376-0362 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. In Windsor County, contact Elizabeth Meuse 802 376-0361 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..