Updates from State Rep. Anne Hughes for Oct. 29, 2025

October 29, 2025



 

 

I can't believe I am sending out information in this newsletter on where people can get food. But this is life under the current leadership in Washington, D.C. 

No one should go hungry in the most (allegedly) prosperous country in the history of the planet.

I shudder to think the ways in which it could get worse.

The following is the most up-to-date information from the Department of Social Services concerning federal SNAP benefits.
 
What We Now Know:
 

  • If you have a balance from previous months, you will still be able to use it after November 1. Carryover benefits already on EBT cards remain accessible.
  • No new benefits will be added to cards until the shutdown ends. This means that starting November 1, households will not receive their regular monthly SNAP allocation.
  • 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.

 
What This Means for You:
 
Many of the families will be impacted by this disruption. Those who rely on monthly SNAP benefits to feed their families will face significant hardship beginning Nov. 1. There likely will be increased demand at food pantries and meal programs across the state.

State Response:

  • The $3 million in emergency funding will help Connecticut Foodshare expand its capacity to meet urgent needs.
  • DSS is working closely with Connecticut Foodshare and the United Way to ensure no one falls through the cracks.
  • DSS will continue to monitor the situation and coordinate our response with food security partners statewide.

How to Check SNAP Balances:

  • Call 1-888-328-2666
  • Use MyDSS online

 I will continue to update you as I receive it.
 
 

 

Food Drive

I will be colleting food from local farmers and neighbors to help support this food drive in Fairfield for impacted families. Please consider donating whatever you can as we navigate this challenging time.
 

Center on Aging Well

A bit of good news!

Today (Oct. 29) I attended the grand opening of the Center on Aging Well at the Yale School of Nursing in Orange.

The center's goal, according to a Yale News article, "is to be a global leader for research on cognitive health. It aims to promote the prevention of disease and physical and psychological wellness across the lifespan. 

"The center will also work closely with organizations in New Haven and surrounding communities to bring knowledge about prevention to those living with and at risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer’s disease."

This Innovation Center is a valuable addition to the cutting-edge medical resources we have here in Connecticut!
 

Free Calling, Texting to Jamaica

In support of communities affected by Hurricane Melissa, Optimum has announced that all current Optimum Mobile and Optimum Phone customers can make free calls and send texts (SMS and MMS) from the U.S. to Jamaica through Nov. 30.

This initiative ensures that both residential and business customers can stay connected with loved ones during this difficult time.

No action is required—any calls or messages to Jamaica made during this period will automatically have fees waived.

For more details, you can view the official announcement here.
 

Access Health

Open Enrollment for Access Health CT's (AHCT) health and dental insurance remains on track to begin Saturday, Nov. 1 and end Monday, Dec. 15 for plans beginning at the start of next year. Residents can enroll until Thursday, Jan. 15 for plans beginning in February.

You may have received a letter in the mail warning of healthcare premium price increases starting Jan. 1 due to legislation passed in the U.S. Congress this year. Currently, the federal government is shut down as those price increases are debated and negotiated.

As it stands, state officials in Connecticut are encouraging residents to hold off on enrolling in the AHCT plan as the debate continues over those price increases. If you are able, please wait to enroll until the issue is fully resolved.
 

Early Voting Continues

Early voting continues, and will end Sunday, Nov. 2. Hours are daily (Sunday through Saturday) from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., except on Tuesday, Oct. 28 and Thursday, Oct. 30, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Same-day registration will be available during early voting hours and on Election Day. 

  • The early voting location in Easton is the Library Community Room on Morehouse Road.
  • The early voting location in Weston is the Weston Town Hall Meeting Room and same-day voter registration available during days and times of early voting.
  • The early voting location for Redding is the Redding Community Center (37 Lonetown Road).

Absentee Ballots must be received by 8 p.m., before closing on Nov. 4, Election Day.  Please mail your ballot early so it's received before polls close on Nov. 4. 
 

Community Conversation

I had a great community conversation that I hosted with state Treasurer Erick Russell, discussing the issues that are facing Connecticut. 

I look forward to hosting more events in the district to continue to engage with residents on the issues that are most important to them.
 

Make Redding Glow

Bring your Jack-O-Lantern to the Town Green tonight, Oct. 29! Details below.
 

Trunk or Treat

The Easton Annual Halloween Trunk or Treat & Bonfire is scheduled for Friday, Oct. 31. 

Join the Lions Club, Park & Rec, Easton Volunteer Fire Department, and EMS on Halloween night for the Annual Trunk or Treat.

There will be music, snacks, and The Knights of Gore Show will provide entertainment. There will also be a photo booth and a pumpkin smash.

  • Trunk or Treat: 5:30 p.m. for Trick-or-Treating (4:30-5:30 p.m. Trunk set-up time).
  • Knights of Gore: 5:30 p.m.
  • Costume Contest & Bonfire: 6 p.m. Location: Samuel Staples Elementary School/Morehouse Fields (next to SSES).
  • Cost: Free.

Candy donations are accepted at the Park & Recreation office or the Extended Day Program (Room 139 @ SSES) through Oct. 30. Donations can also be brought that evening to the concierge’s trunk. Email eastontrunkortreat@gmail.com today to sign up your car for TRUNK OR TREAT on Friday, Oct. 31.

For more info, click here.
 

As always, please feel free to contact my office at 800-842-8267 or by email at anne.hughes@cga.ct.gov. And "Like" and follow my Facebook page for regular legislative updates. 

Peace,

Anne Hughes
State Representative

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