Dear HPS Families and Community,
Hartford Public Schools wants to ensure that our families are not only informed, but have the resources as we navigate changes in federal government policy. We understand this news is deeply concerning, and we want to ensure your family has clear information and resources.
We are writing to provide a critical update regarding your Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. Due to the recent federal government shutdown, it has now been confirmed that there is a significant risk of a delay or suspension of new SNAP benefits starting on November 1, 2025.
Immediate Action and Important Facts:
Existing Benefits Remain Available: Any SNAP benefits currently loaded onto your Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card from prior months will remain available for you to use. Please prioritize using any remaining balance you have.
No New Benefits on November 1: If the federal funding lapse continues, the federal government will not issue the regularly scheduled SNAP payments on or after November 1, 2025, until federal authorization is restored.
Recertification: If you receive a recertification notice, you must complete and submit it by the deadline to prevent a lapse in eligibility once funding resumes.
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.
Resources to Support Your Family:
We urge you to use the following resources to secure food assistance during this potential delay:
Hartford Public Schools Welcome Center
Located on the first floor of 280 Trumbull Street, Hartford CT 06103
Hours of Operation 8:00am to 4:00pm Monday - Friday
For information specific to your school, please reach out to your Family and Community Support Service Provider (FCSSP)
Local Food Pantries & Banks: Contact your local food bank or pantry immediately, here.
Hartford Soup Kitchens
Locations and hours of operations of Hartford Soup Kitchens can be found here
Statewide Food Pantries Information can be found here:
Additional Important Resources:
Text FOODSHARE to the number 85511
Call 211 or text your zip code to 898211 (multilingual services)
How to Check SNAP Balances:
Call 1-888-328-2666
We are committed to keeping you informed. Please see future updates on our official website at www.hartfordschools.org and your mailbox for the latest updates.
Excellence in Truth and Service,
Andraé Townsel, Ed.D.
Superintendent