Lamont Allocates $3M Emergency Funds to Protect Connecticut SNAP Benefits

Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont has stepped in to provide critical support for residents facing the loss of federal food assistance during the government shutdown.

He’s allocated $3 million in emergency state funding to Connecticut Foodshare. This move aims to help tens of thousands of families get through a tough stretch when Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits will be temporarily halted.

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This stopgap measure can’t replace all the lost support, but it shows the state’s commitment to making sure no Connecticut family is left behind in a time of political gridlock.

Emergency Funding to Support Food Assistance

Starting November 1, the federal government will suspend SNAP benefits. That leaves about 360,000 Connecticut residents without a key source of food assistance.

Families in Hartford, New Haven, Bridgeport, Stamford, Waterbury, Norwalk, Danbury, and New Britain will all feel the impact.

Governor Lamont’s emergency allocation to Connecticut Foodshare is meant to ease the sudden burden on households that rely on these benefits.

This funding will go straight to providing food resources for residents who might otherwise find their cupboards bare.

Impact Across Connecticut Communities

The SNAP halt will ripple across the entire state. For families in cities like Hartford and Bridgeport, SNAP isn’t just a safety net—it’s their lifeline.

In smaller towns like Middletown and Torrington, community food pantries will see more people lining up almost right away. Local organizations will need to stretch their resources further than ever before.

The $3 million infusion lets Connecticut Foodshare expand food distribution and offer some temporary relief.

It won’t replace the tens of millions in lost federal aid, but it’s expected to make a real difference for families struggling to pay rent, utilities, and buy groceries.

Governor Lamont’s Message to Residents

Governor Lamont didn’t hold back in criticizing the federal government for not reimbursing states that cover SNAP costs during the shutdown. He called the situation a failure of leadership.

He stressed that political dysfunction in Washington should never force a child or senior to go hungry.

Lamont said the emergency funding is just one part of a bigger commitment to protect vulnerable residents. He underscored how important community solidarity is when times get tough.

“This is about ensuring no family in Connecticut goes without food,” Lamont said during the announcement.

Connecticut Foodshare’s Role in the Crisis

Connecticut Foodshare CEO Jason Jakubowski welcomed the state’s quick action, calling it a lifeline for thousands of households. He explained that many people now have to choose between paying rent and putting food on the table.

With this funding, Foodshare can ramp up operations at key distribution centers in towns like Meriden and Manchester. That helps more families meet their basic nutritional needs.

Jakubowski pointed to these top priorities for the emergency funds:

Boosting food delivery to high-demand areas like New Haven and Bridgeport.
Expanding pantry hours in underserved communities like Norwich and Waterbury.
Keeping shelves stocked with basics like rice, pasta, and canned vegetables.
Working with local nonprofits to reach rural areas, including parts of Litchfield County.

Community Values Put into Action

This rapid response highlights what many consider Connecticut’s core values—compassion, resilience, and a willingness to tackle challenges head-on.

From Stamford’s busy neighborhoods to the quieter corners of Windham, the teamwork between the state and local food networks shows how community-driven solutions can make a real difference—even when federal systems let people down.

Looking Ahead

The state’s emergency funding will help cover some of the gap left by lost SNAP benefits. Still, a real solution needs federal support to return.

Local leaders in cities and towns are keeping an eye on Washington, hoping for quick action. For now, state and community programs have to shoulder most of the load.

Connecticut officials keep repeating a simple message: nobody should get left out when times are tough. Putting money into Connecticut Foodshare isn’t just about dollars—it’s a reminder that people here look out for each other, especially when things get rough.

If you need food assistance, reach out to Connecticut Foodshare or your local pantry. They’re there to help during the shutdown.

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