Ceci Maher

Sen. Maher Welcomes $20,000 in State Grants for Maintenance of Neglected Cemeteries in Darien, New Canaan, Redding and Ridgefield

HARTFORD, CT – Today, state Senator Ceci Maher (D-Wilton) welcomed state grants totaling $20,000 for maintenance of neglected cemeteries in Darien, New Canaan, Redding and Ridgefield.

“The love for a family member or friend that has passed away endures forever,” said Sen. Maher. “Ensuring our neglected cemeteries are cared for not only is a showing of respect for those that are no longer with us, but it also provides comfort to those grieving. I am grateful to Governor Lamont for releasing these funds.”

Per the governor’s office, each grant is $5,000 per municipality. These funds are being released under the state’s Neglected Cemetery Account Grant Program, administered by the Connecticut Office of Policy and Management. This program was established in 2014 and is funded by revenue collected by the Connecticut Department of Public Health from the issuance of death certificates. Municipalities can use grants to support basic maintenance of cemeteries, including the clearing of weeds, briars, and bushes; mowing of the ground’s lawn areas; repairing the ground’s fences or walls; and straightening, repairing, and restoring memorial stones.