Roland Lemar

Juneteenth marks June 19, 1865, when enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, finally learned of their freedom, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued. This historic day celebrates freedom while honoring the resilience, strength, and countless contributions of African Americans throughout our nation's history. It also serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing pursuit of equality, justice, and opportunity for all.

As we reflect on the significance of Juneteenth, we honor those who endured the injustices of slavery, recognize the achievements and contributions of Black Americans, and recommit ourselves to building stronger, more inclusive communities. By learning from our history and embracing the values of freedom and equality, we can continue working toward a future that lives up to our nation's highest ideals.

The Connecticut Department of Social Services (DSS) wants residents to be aware of new work requirements affecting some recipients of SNAP benefits and upcoming changes to HUSKY Health, eligibility rules.

The good news: most people will not lose their benefits. However, it is important to review the new requirements and determine whether they apply to your situation.
 

SNAP Work Requirement Changes that began in November 2025, some SNAP recipients must meet one of the following work rules:

• Work at least 80 hours per month or earn at least $217.60 per week
• Participate in a job training or work program, such as SNAP Employment & Training, for at least 80 hours per month
• Complete at least 80 hours per month of community service or volunteer work
• Combine work, training, and/or volunteer activities totaling 80 hours per month

Click here to use the SNAP Work Rules Pre-Screener and find out whether these requirements apply to you.
 

Upcoming HUSKY Health (HUSKY D) Changes

Starting January 1, 2027, some HUSKY D recipients may be subject to new work requirements. To meet the rules, individuals must fulfill at least one of the following:

• Earn at least $580 per month
• Work at least 80 hours per month
• Complete at least 80 hours per month of volunteer work or community service
• Participate in a qualified work or training program for at least 80 hours per month
• Be enrolled at least half-time in an education program
• Combine work, training, and/or volunteer activities totaling up to 80 hours per month

Click here to answer a few questions to learn if the new proposed rules apply to you.

These rules do not start until 2027 and may change before then. This tool provides answers based on the current status of the rules.

Connecticut's Community Action Agencies (CAAs) offer free, in-person assistance with SNAP and HUSKY Health benefits, click here to find your local CAA office.

New legislation has been signed into law to expand benefits and strengthen support for Connecticut's public safety personnel, including police officers, firefighters, correction officers, EMS personnel, and members of the National Guard. The law is designed to help recruit the next generation of public safety professionals while improving retention among those already serving our communities.

The legislation includes a wide range of initiatives and benefits, including college tuition and fee waivers, mortgage assistance programs, expanded survivor health insurance coverage, support for National Guard employment opportunities, and the creation of junior firefighter grant programs. It also establishes several new task forces and working groups focused on recruitment, retention, tax incentives, and career pipeline development for police officers and firefighters.

Additional provisions include studying health insurance options for retired police officers and firefighters, establishing pay rates for state troopers assigned to highway construction projects, providing tax relief for surviving domestic partners of first responders, and strengthening recruitment and retention efforts for UConn's public safety departments.

Together, these measures recognize the critical role public safety professionals play in protecting our communities and help ensure Connecticut can attract, support, and retain a strong and dedicated workforce.

For additional details, click here to read the Governor's news release.

Movies in the Plaza is back and brings you free Wednesday night movie screenings May through October in downtown New Haven’s Pitkin Plaza (145 Orange Street).

Grab your lawn chairs, picnic blankets, and some takeout from a local spot, and spend an evening under the stars enjoying blockbusters, nostalgic blasts from the past, cult favorites, family films, and more.

This event is free and open to the public, there is free popcorn and snacks, and it is a (leashed) pet-friendly event.

The next movie showing is The Great Debaters on June 17 at 8:00 p.m.