Make Your Voice Heard

1. Get Involved

Become a more active member of the Connecticut Housing Coalition by letting us know which issues are important to you. Contact the Coalition at 860/563-2943 or info@ct-housing.org. Participate in other important advocacy networks too, such as the Partnership for Strong Communities and One Connecticut.

2. Stay Informed

In addition to the legislative alerts provided by the Coalition, you can track legislation directly. The Connecticut General Assembly website provides bill status information on a real-time basis. You can search for legislation by bill number, subject or key words; view calendars, journals, committee meeting minutes, and vote tallies. You can find the names of your local legislators by going to www.vote-smart.org and entering your zip code. If you do not have access to the internet, the Capitol's legislative information office will answer questions, including the status of bills; call 860/240-0555.

3. Speak Out

Constituents' voices are the most effective in influencing our lawmakers. Call, write or email now! Describe your community's housing needs, tell your organization's story and urge support of specific legislative initiatives. Toll-free numbers are: House Democrats - 800/842-8267; House Republicans - 800/842-8270; Senate Democrats - 800/842-1420; Senate Republicans - 800/842-1421. Write to your legislators at: Legislative Office Building, Capitol Avenue, Hartford, CT 06106. Or find local address and telephone numbers in the blue pages of your phone book under Connecticut/State Legislators. Email for legislators is generally: firstname.lastname@po.state.ct.us. Detailed contact information also can be obtained at the General Assembly's website www.cga.ct.gov

4. Amplify your voice!

Write letters to the editor. Invite your legislators to visit your program and meet residents or clients. Organize a legislative breakfast with other housing activists in your area. The Connecticut Housing Coalition is eager to assist with your efforts. We can provide resource materials, put you in touch with other Coalition members in your community, or participate in your local events. Just call us at 860/563-2943 or email us at info@ct-housing.org.