Advocates, therapists, teachers, and parents of children in need of Birth to Three services to oppose agency's planned shut-down of Early Connections program

HARTFORD – After ratifying an agreement that saves $1.6 billion for Connecticut taxpayers over the next two years, state employees expected that admissions to Early Connections Birth to services would be reopened. The Department of Developmental Services (DDS) sent a letter to parents with children in the program August 18 stating the program "will not be closing." The agency informed staff the next day that Early Connections would be permanently closed to new referrals, effectively shutting down a critical component of services for infants and toddlers with developmental delays.

The teachers and therapists in Early Connections are concerned about the future developmental and health-related needs of infants and toddlers who have delays or disabilities. They are also concerned about the fiscal impact of shuttering the program. DDS' commissioner in 2009 testified to the legislature that initial outsourcing of Early Connections helped drag the agency at least $9 million deeper in deficit.

WHO: Families with infants and toddlers who have benefited from Birth to Three services, professional staff in the Early Connections program, and early education advocates.

WHAT: Rally, march, and press conference organized to tell DDS that Connecticut families deserve quality Birth to Three services. Event will provide unique visual media opportunities.

WHEN: Thursday, September 8, beginning at 12:00 PM.

WHERE: Participants will meet at the Legislative Office Building (LOB) at 300 Capitol Avenue in Hartford, then march to DDS' Central Office at 460 Capitol Avenue for a rally and press conference.