For Immediate Release
Contact: Jessica Standiferd, jessica@connections4il.org
Weld County, CO, 5/15/2024 – With the Medicaid wind down, there are many Coloradans that may be eligible for Medicaid insurance coverage that are not receiving it. Connections for Independent Living (Connections) has long been aware that the application process to enroll in Health First Colorado, Colorado’s Medicaid provider, is difficult. Frustration in this process adds complications for many who are living with significant disabilities that prevent them from completing their Medicaid application successfully. To respond to the needs of the Weld County community, Connections pursued the opportunity to become a Benefits Enrollment Center. Benefits Enrollment Centers (BEC) are overseen by the National Council on Aging (NCOA). The program focuses on connecting older adults and adults with disabilities with limited incomes to core benefits of Medicaid Health First Colorado. Additional programs that Benefits Enrollment Centers focus on are the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LEAP), the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, formerly known as Food Stamps), Medicare Part D Extra Help, and the Medicare Savings Program.
Connections has steadily provided these services on a limited basis to the community for decades. Now, as a certified BEC, through funding made possible by the NCOA, Connections will now provide an expanded level of highly trained assistance.
In the coming months Connections will be hosting numerous application workshops focused on Medicaid, LEAP, SNAP, and other benefits for which individuals with disabilities may qualify. Individuals don’t have to wait for a workshop and can call for an appointment for assistance in-person, by phone, or virtually. Connections will continue to offer assistance regarding the vast array of local, state, and federal assistance programs but with renewed vigor and enhanced expertise, and access to these programs throughout our seven-county catchment area. Connections staff are often able to recommend additional benefits to consumers.
Contact Connections via our main number 970-352-8682 or fill out a contact form at ConnectionsColorado.org. Connections main office is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Our highly trained and knowledgeable team is ready to provide support.
Connections provides all services to the community at no-cost.
Connections for Independent Living is a non-residential, participant-controlled nonprofit Independent Living Center that promotes independent living and the empowerment of all persons with disabilities. The organization is one of nine certified Independent Living Centers throughout Colorado and since 1986 has specifically served individuals in seven northeastern counties.
