Fresh Food Funding, Renters' Rebate, and Autism Acceptance Awareness Month

April 10, 2026

 

The legislature met for two session days this week, marking the beginning of a more intensive period as we approach the May 6 adjournment. The upcoming weeks will be critical as we work diligently to address outstanding priorities and bring legislation to final passage.

Expanding Access to Locally
Grown Food

A total of $1.55 million in state grants is being awarded to 12 organizations (including food pantries, community health centers, and nonprofits) to support the purchase of healthy, Connecticut Grown products from local farms for distribution to food-insecure residents.

Two organizations in Greater New Haven will be receiving a portion of this grant money:

  • CitySeed, Inc. (New Haven) – $150,000: CitySeed will connect Connecticut farmers to food pantries and community partners across New Haven, expanding access to fresh, locally grown food for low-income residents through a coordinated citywide network.
  • Living Word Ministries DBA Vertical Church (West Haven) – $100,000: Vertical Church will provide weekly boxes of Connecticut-grown produce to thousands of families through a network of food pantries in the Greater New Haven region, increasing access to fresh food during the growing season.

These grants are being distributed through the Connecticut Department of Agriculture’s Local Food Purchase Assistance Grant Program, which is designed to expand access to fresh, locally grown food while also strengthening Connecticut’s agricultural sector. By connecting local producers with community-based organizations, the program helps ensure that nutritious food reaches those who need it most.

Now funded by the state, the program builds on a previously federally supported initiative and serves as a critical bridge in the wake of recent federal funding cuts, ensuring continued support for both vulnerable communities and Connecticut farmers.

CT Renters' Rebate Program

Connecticut’s Renters’ Rebate Program is now open to eligible renters who are elderly or living with a disability and meet certain income requirements.

Qualified applicants may receive rebates of up to $900 for married couples and $700 for single individuals. The rebate amount is determined using a graduated income scale, as well as the total rent and utility payments (excluding telephone) made during the previous calendar year.

Applications must be submitted through your local municipality’s assessor’s office or a designated social service agency. The application period is now open and will run through September 30. Please note that no extensions are permitted, and all applications must be received by the municipality no later than September 30.

Click here for more information about eligibility requirements and how to apply.

Autism Acceptance Month

 

April is Autism Acceptance Month, a time to recognize, celebrate, and honor the experiences and identities of individuals with Autism.

This month highlights the importance of moving beyond simple awareness toward true acceptance, fostering understanding, promoting inclusion, and supporting those on the spectrum in all aspects of life. It is an opportunity to uplift voices, challenge stereotypes, and advocate for equitable access to education, employment, health care, and community life.

Autism Acceptance Month encourages communities to embrace neurodiversity, recognize the strengths and contributions of Autistic people, and create environments where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to thrive.

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