Social Services

Lyme’s Social Services Director provides vital assistance to individuals and families in need, working closely with the Town of Lyme, the Lymes’ Senior Center, the Lymes’ Youth Services Bureau, the Old Lyme Visiting Nurse Association, and other state and local agencies and organizations.  All services are provided confidentially.

The director can assist residents by providing information and referrals to outside resources that can help with specific needs, as well as by providing direct assistance in applying for the state’s Energy Assistance Program and Renters’ Rebate program. Lyme’s Social Services Director is Kathy Tisdale. She can be reached by phone at 860-575-0541.


Homelessness Assistance Programs.  For information on area homelessness assistance programs, go here.

Food Assistance Programs.  For information on local food assistance programs, go here.

Connecticut Energy Assistance Program.  Energy assistance through the Connecticut Energy Assistance Program helps low-income households pay their heating and energy bills – which, in Lyme, typically means their Eversource bills. The program is overseen in our area by the Thames Valley Council for Community Action (TVCCA).  The TVCCA also offers assistance in paying for water and sewer bills.  Energy payments are determined by family size and gross income, and by whether a household is classified as “vulnerable.” Vulnerable households have a member who is under age 6, who is age 60 or older, or who is any age and disabled.

Household Size 1 2 3 4 5 6
Gross Income Limit $39,027 $51,035 $63,044 $75,052 $87,060 $99,069

For more information on the program’s details and deadlines, go here.

Connecticut Renters’ Rebate Program.  State law provides a reimbursement program for Connecticut renters who are elderly or totally disabled, and whose incomes do not exceed certain limits. Persons renting an apartment or room, or who are living in cooperative housing or a mobile home, may be eligible for this program. Renters’ rebates can be up to $900 for married couples and $700 for single persons. The rebate amount is based on a graduated income scale and the amount of rent and utility payments (excluding phone) made in the calendar year prior to the year in which the renter applies.  The application period is from April 1 – October 1, 2022, for the year 2023. For more information, please contact the Social Services Director.