SNAP Benefits Update and Food Assistance Information

November 3, 2025


 


Today, children of all ages are putting on creative and spooky costumes to join in the celebration of one of the season’s most beloved holidays!

While everyone enjoys trick or treating or any other outdoor evening activities, here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

  • Wear reflective clothes and carry a flashlight to see and alert others of your presence
  • Young children should never go trick or treating alone
  • Walk on side of the street and avoid running from house to house
  • Only visit well-lit homes
  • Inspect all candy and treats before eating or giving to others
  • Discourage use of sharp accessories that can be harmful
  • Always look both ways before crossing the street

Click here for more safety tips from the National Safety Council.

I wish you and your family a safe and enjoyable Halloween!

LEGISLATIVE BUSINESS

The Trump administration, through the U.S. Department of Agriculture, has stated it will not use its $6 billion contingency fund to continue funding the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) during the shutdown, nor will it reimburse states that attempt to cover the cost. SNAP has never been cut off during any previous government shutdown. As a result:

  • No new SNAP benefits will be distributed after November 1.
  • If you have a balance from previous months, it is expected that those carryover benefits already on EBT cards will remain accessible after November 1.
  • DSS is still accepting and processing SNAP applications. If someone is approved for benefits for October, those benefits will appear on their card when the federal government reopens.

This cut in food assistance will affect an estimated 42 million low-income Americans, including about 360,000 Connecticut residents, many of whom are children, seniors, and people with disabilities.

On Tuesday, I had joined Attorney General William Tong, my legislative colleagues, and advocates to announce a lawsuit filed by 25 states and the District of Columbia. The lawsuit challenges the Trump administration's refusal to release the emergency funding to prevent SNAP benefits from being cut off on November 1. 

I am deeply grateful to be part of a state where we are working together, across all levels, to ensure that no one in our communities goes hungry. This united effort reflects our commitment to protecting the well-being of all residents, especially those most in need.

Also this week Governor Ned Lamont announced $3 million in emergency state funding for Connecticut Foodshare, the state’s largest food bank, to assist during this crisis.

While the $3 million in state aid will not replace the full scope of lost federal benefits, it reflects a first step to support residents facing food insecurity during the shutdown. 

Need food assistance? Local food pantries across the state are providing essential assistance to those in need and are also seeking donations to help meet the growing demand.

Click here to find food programs and services available through 211 Connecticut. You can also call 2-1-1, or 1-800-203-1234.

Click here to find a Connecticut Foodshare food pantry or mobile food pantry.

Click here for West Hartford Food Pantry information and click here for Newington Food Bank information. And please do not hesitate to reach out to me personally to help you in any way. 

Able to donate or volunteer? Click here to volunteer and/or to donate with Connecticut Foodshare. 

There are also two immediate ways to support the West Hartford Food Pantry and Newington Social Services. You can donate non-perishable items at the West Hartford November 2nd Block Party or at your Newington voting locations in Newington through November 4th. 

Last week I joined many legislative colleagues and municipal leaders to celebrate women owned businesses across the state with the Women's Business Development Council (WBDC) including Sasha from West Hartford who owns Ovelle Coffee. Need business assistance? Connect with WBDC funding and resources here. 


STATE AND LOCAL RESOURCES

Reminder! Early voting is still available for municipal elections until Sunday, November 2 and the General Election is Tuesday, November 4.

If you aren't registered to vote, same day registration (SDR) is also available during the early voting period (through Sunday, November 2) 10:00 A.M. to 6:00 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!

Monday marked National Civics Day, a time to recognize the importance of civics education and commemorate the anniversary of the first release of the Federalist Papers in 1787.

Secretary of State Stephanie Thomas launched the new “Power of Civics” online learning course, an initiative designed to help residents learn more about government and civic engagement.

The course is designed to help residents better understand how government works, how laws are made, and how individuals can participate effectively in democracy. It includes interactive lessons, videos, and quizzes covering topics like voting, the Constitution, and the role of local and state government.

Click here to access the new "Power of Civics" course.

October is Manufacturing Month and Connecticut's I Got It Made Campaign aims to dispel outdated notions of manufacturing and promote the reality of advanced manufacturing in Connecticut, which offers high-skilled jobs, technological innovation, and significant contributions to the state's economy. There are many resources that provide information and exploration tools for manufacturing careers. 

GotItMadeCT.com: For career exploration
ManufactureCT.org: For industry events and networking
Manufacturing.ct.gov: The central resource center for Connecticut manufacturers

Click here for the downloadable I Got It Made guide to manufacturing in Connecticut, with all the info to land the role you want.