Lost SNAP? Help Is Available For CT Residents

ENFIELD, CT — Enfield residents who recently lost Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits because of new federal work-rule changes may qualify for a one-time $300 grocery card, according to Enfield Social Services.

The town department said it has received calls about the state-funded benefit and directed potentially eligible residents to Community Renewal Team, or CRT, to apply and have their eligibility verified. CRT can be reached at 860-560-5600.

Connecticut began distributing the benefits Aug. 4 through its network of community action agencies. The money is provided on a prepaid virtual grocery card — not an existing EBT card — and can be used for SNAP-eligible food purchases at retailers that accept standard credit cards, according to the Governor's Office.

The card does not expire, and any unused balance remains available until it is spent. Receiving the one-time benefit will not affect eligibility for other assistance programs, the state said.

State officials say the benefit is available per individual, rather than per household, for Connecticut residents who lost SNAP eligibility under the new Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents, or ABAWD, requirements since Dec. 1, 2025, and are no longer receiving SNAP.

DSS specifically advises people who received a notice saying they reached their three-month SNAP-benefit limit under the ABAWD rules to contact their local community action agency. CRT serves the Hartford area, including Enfield.

The federal changes do not apply to every SNAP participant. DSS says exemptions may apply based on age, disability or health limitations, pregnancy, caregiving responsibilities, school enrollment and other circumstances. Residents can review the state’s work-rule information and exemptions before calling.

Connecticut is financing the grocery-card program with $8.5 million from its Federal Cuts Response Fund.

For eligibility screening and help applying, Enfield residents can contact Community Renewal Team at 860-560-5600.