Kate Farrar

Early Voting begins this Monday, October 20th for municipal elections. Last year Connecticut joined over 40 states to have early voting available for greater access to one of our most important rights, participation in free elections. 

If you aren't registered to vote, same day registration (SDR) is also available during the early voting period (Monday, October 20, through Sunday, November 2) 10:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M., there are extended hours on October 28 & 30 from 8:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M.

Below are the designated Early Voting locations for the 20th District:

• West Hartford: Town Hall Auditorium (50 South Main Street)
• Newington: Council Chambers and Conference Room, First Floor (200 Garfield Street)

Happy voting!

Starting November 1, the USDA is implementing new Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) work requirements by expanding the age range for Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs) from 54 to 64 and narrowing exemptions for parents and other groups. These changes mean more people are subject to the rule requiring 80 hours of work or work program participation per month to receive benefits for more than three months in a three-year period. Previously protected groups, such as veterans, homeless individuals, and those aging out of foster care, are now required to meet the work requirements or prove an exemption. 

The average federal SNAP benefit amount in Connecticut is about $194 per person or $331 per household per month. With grocery prices rising, that amount doesn’t go far, if you even qualify. Most SNAP participants are already working, additional work requirements often just create administrative hassles and disproportionately harm people with disabilities. 

Currently 5108 West Hartford residents and 2767 Newington residents benefit from SNAP. Here in Connecticut, these cuts from the federal government will mean more people hungry in our state unless we take action in special session. 

Click here to listen to the Appropriations Committee Informational Forum on SNAP.

Please reach out to me with any questions.

Given so many changes happening due to federal cuts, the Connecticut Department of Social Services (DSS) just launched Laurel, a new chatbot that helps cut down wait times and gives people instant, 24/7 access to benefit info and resources. It makes things a lot easier for anyone getting services or applying, it's an alternative to waiting on the phone or having to visit an office in person.

On Thursday, I was happy to celebrate the completion of the roof replacement and exterior renovations to the Visitor Center of the Noah Webster House. This project has been years in the making with support from the State of Connecticut’s Department of Economic & Community Development, and the Town of West Hartford. 

It’s was also Noah Webster’s 267^th birthday!

Click here to read more about the renovation project.

Earlier this week, it was great to welcome a new business to Elmwood: Beloved Companions. We're grateful to have a business that honors the bond between people and their animal companions as part of our community. They offer compassionate pet cremation and memorial services for our beloved pets.

On Tuesday, October 21 from 5:30 P.M. to 7:30 P.M. at the Noah Webster Library (20 South Main Street), join me along with the West Hartford delegation for Know Your Rights: Immigration Panel. 

We'll be discussing important immigration topics and providing information to help individuals and families understand their rights. Following the panel, there will be time for a Q&A session, so bring your questions!

This is a great opportunity to learn, ask questions, and connect with community resources. We hope to see you there!

In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, early detection is critical in the fight against breast cancer. Regular mammograms remain the most effective method for identifying breast cancer at its earliest and most treatable stages.

Connecticut has one of the strongest laws for insurance coverage for early detection. For Connecticut residents who may not have health insurance, the Connecticut Department of Public Health’s Early Detection and Prevention Program offers free breast cancer screenings. Services will be available at various locations across the state.

Click here for more information to find out if you qualify for free screenings, if you need assistance accessing a mammogram, or for other available resources. You can also contact the Department of Public Health at 860-509-7804 for more information.