Scam alert from state's aging services division

A senior center director in southern Connecticut contacted the state Deptartment of Social Services about a green postcard that numerous clients have been receiving, marked: "Urgent: Read Immediately. Our office has been trying to contact you. You are guaranteed a $25,000 Grant from the U.S. Government".

There is no return address, just a toll free number, (877) 303-3788, and an "official form number." When Connecticut Department of Social Services called the number, a prerecorded message stated (six times) that we could receive "$25,000 or more in free government grant money guaranteed" from their grant guide for a small "risk-free" payment of $59; Just dial 1."

Following a quick Google of the number, the Department of Social Services determined that the mailer is ASI Inc. 4149 Pennsylvania Ave., Suite 301, Kansas City, MO 64111, office: 913-731-2478 - and that ASI is mailing 80,000 post cards daily all over the country.

Most disturbing is the fact that the message indicates that the name, address and number will be put into their system to facility the mailing - "just dial 1." Who knows what will be done with that information? Robert Verderame, executive director of the Calendar House in Southington cautions all seniors and others to beware and be watchful. There is no free lunch.