By Tiffany Williams –
Connecticut families finally got a break. Governor Ned Lamont announced Friday that full November SNAP benefits will hit EBT cards within days, ending weeks of anxiety for thousands of households caught in the crossfire of Washington’s shutdown chaos.
A federal court ordered the USDA to restore benefits, but the agency still hasn’t complied. Lamont isn’t waiting around. He’s greenlit state funding to cover the gap if federal money doesn’t show up. Connecticut’s EBT vendor said the cash can move within 48 hours once the funds are ready, meaning food aid is imminent.
“I’m relieved to share that families will receive their full benefits for the month of November and can plan their grocery shopping accordingly,” Lamont said. “Families in need of food assistance should never have been used as political pawns due to Washington’s dysfunction, and the federal administration’s attempts to prevent families from accessing this funding has just been cruel.”
Lamont praised the community for rallying to help those left hungry during the federal freeze, saying no one in Connecticut should go without food because of a political standoff.
DSS Commissioner Andrea Barton Reeves echoed that relief. “Our team has been working around the clock to ensure we could provide these benefits as quickly as possible,” she said. “Families can soon expect to see their full November benefits, and we appreciate everyone’s patience during this time.”
Recipients don’t have to lift a finger — the funds will automatically appear on their EBT cards and can be used at grocery stores and other authorized retailers statewide.
Balances can be checked at MyDSS.ct.gov or by calling 1-888-328-2666.