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Grants for Single Mothers in Connecticut

Connecticut Single Mother’s Guide to Benefits, Grants, and Support Programs (2025)

Last updated: August 2025

Quick Summary for Busy Moms

Connecticut offers comprehensive assistance for single mothers through 30+ programs. Emergency help available within 1-7 days. Key programs include food assistance for families earning under $4,108/month, emergency cash up to $833/month, and health coverage for families earning under $44,367/year.


Top Programs by Urgency:

  • Emergency Food: SNAP benefits up to $768/month for family of 3
  • Emergency Cash: TFA up to $833/month (highest cost areas)
  • Emergency Health: HUSKY covers families earning under $44,367/year
  • Tax Benefits: CT EITC (40% of federal) plus federal EITC up to $8,046/year
  • Education: Roberta B. Willis grants up to $4,500/year

If You Need Help Today

If you’re facing an immediate crisis, here are three steps you can take right now:

  1. Call 2-1-1 – Free 24/7 help finding emergency assistance for housing, food, utilities, and more
  2. Apply for Emergency SNAP at ConneCT portal – you can get benefits within 1-7 days
  3. Contact Connecticut Food Bank at (203) 469-5000 for emergency food assistance

Crisis Numbers:

  • Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-888-774-2900
  • Suicide Prevention: 988
  • Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741

Main Points

Being a single mom in Connecticut is challenging, but you’re not alone. According to recent data, Connecticut provides assistance to thousands of single mothers through various state and federal programs. Connecticut has some of the most generous benefits in New England, but navigating the system can be confusing.

What you need to know:

  • Real help exists – Connecticut’s TFA program provides up to $833 per month for families of three in highest-cost areas
  • Emergency help is available – You can get food assistance within days and emergency cash within weeks
  • Health coverage is comprehensive – HUSKY Health covers families earning up to $44,367/year for a family of 3
  • Education grants matter – State grants up to $4,500/year available for college students
  • The system has rules – Time limits, work requirements, and income reporting are strictly enforced

Reality Check: Connecticut has the second-shortest welfare time limit in the nation at 21 months, so planning for long-term stability is crucial.

Tax Credits and Federal Benefits (Often Overlooked!)

Many single mothers miss these programs that provide significant annual income.

Federal Tax Credits

Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)

  • What it provides: Up to $8,046 for families with 3+ children (2025 tax year), according to IRS Revenue Procedure 2024-40
  • Who qualifies: Working families with income under $59,899 (single filers with 3+ children) for 2025
  • How to claim: File tax return with IRS Form 1040, even if you don’t owe taxes
  • Reality Check: This is refundable – you get money back even if you pay no taxes

Connecticut State EITC

  • What it provides: Connecticut provides 40% of the federal EITC amount as an additional refundable credit
  • How it works: If you get $3,000 federal EITC, you get an additional $1,200 from Connecticut
  • How to claim: File Connecticut tax return (CT-1040)

Income Limits for EITC (2025 Tax Year):

Children Single Filer Income Limit Maximum Federal Credit CT Additional Credit (40%)
1 child $47,915 $4,213 $1,685
2 children $53,057 $6,960 $2,784
3+ children $59,899 $8,046 $3,218

Child Tax Credit (CTC)

  • What it provides: Up to $2,000 per child under 17, with up to $1,700 refundable per IRS Topic 602
  • Who qualifies: Single mothers with income under $200,000
  • How to claim: File tax return, may be partially refundable

Contact for Free Tax Help: IRS VITA Program at 1-800-906-9887

Educational Grants That Change Lives

Connecticut offers several education grants that don’t need to be repaid.

Roberta B. Willis Scholarship (Top Choice)

This need-based program helps Connecticut residents attend four-year public or nonprofit private colleges in Connecticut.

What it covers:

  • Up to $4,500 per year for full-time students
  • Available for undergraduate study
  • No separate application required

Requirements:

  • Connecticut resident
  • Submit FAFSA by February 15th deadline
  • Attend participating Connecticut college
  • Meet Student Aid Index (SAI) requirements

How to apply:

  1. Complete FAFSA by February 15th
  2. Apply to eligible Connecticut colleges
  3. College automatically considers you for the scholarship

CT AID to Public College Students

What it provides:

  • Up to $3,000 for full-time students, up to $1,500 for half-time students
  • Need and merit-based assistance

Requirements:

  • Minimum 2.5 GPA and eligible for Pell Grant
  • Connecticut resident
  • Enrolled in Connecticut public college

How to apply:

  • Application opens March 1, 2025 on CHESLA portal, first-come first-served basis
  • Email scholarships@chesla.org for more information

Federal Pell Grant

Benefits:

  • Up to $7,395 per year (2024-2025)
  • No repayment required
  • Can be used at any participating college

How to apply:

  • Complete FAFSA at studentaid.gov
  • Automatically considered when filing FAFSA

Reality Check: Connecticut scholarships are often awarded on a first-come, first-served basis until funds run out, so apply early.

Emergency Cash and Basic Needs

When you need help paying bills or buying food, these programs can provide immediate relief.

Cash Assistance (Connecticut’s TFA Program)

Connecticut’s Temporary Family Assistance (TFA) provides monthly cash and employment assistance to eligible families.

Current benefit amounts:

  • Maximum $833 per month for family of three in highest-cost areas
  • Around $500 per month for family of three in urban areas
  • Lower amounts in rural areas

Income limits (varies by region, always under 100% Federal Poverty Level):

  • Must have income below poverty level and assets under $6,000
  • Specific limits depend on your county

Important Time Limit Warning: Connecticut has the nation’s second-shortest time limit at 21 months lifetime limit, with limited extensions available.

Requirements:

  • U.S. citizen or qualified legal resident
  • Connecticut resident
  • Children under 19 (or under 20 if in school)
  • Must participate in Jobs First Employment Services unless exempted

How to apply:

  1. Apply online at ConneCT portal
  2. Call (855) 626-6632 for paper application
  3. Visit local DSS office

Processing time: Up to 45 days from application date

SNAP (Food Assistance)

Connecticut has expanded SNAP eligibility, allowing households with gross monthly income up to 200% of federal poverty level to qualify.

Maximum benefit amounts (2025):

  • 1 person: $292/month
  • 2 people: $536/month
  • 3 people: $768/month
  • 4 people: $975/month

Income limits (200% Federal Poverty Level for gross income):

Family Size Monthly Gross Income Limit Annual Gross Income Limit
1 person $2,430 $29,160
2 people $3,287 $39,440
3 people $4,108 $49,300
4 people $4,956 $59,490

Net income limits (100% Federal Poverty Level):

Family Size Monthly Net Income Limit
1 person $1,215
2 people $1,644
3 people $2,054
4 people $2,478

How to apply:

  • Online: ConneCT portal
  • Phone: (855) 626-6632
  • Emergency SNAP: Benefits within 1-7 days if you qualify

Asset limits: Most households exempt from asset limits due to Connecticut’s expanded eligibility

Energy Assistance (CEAP)

Connecticut Energy Assistance Program helps with heating and electric bills.

Benefits available:

  • Heating assistance for eligible households, with priority for vulnerable households with elderly, disabled, or children under 6
  • Weatherization services
  • Energy crisis intervention

Who qualifies:

  • Income at or below 60% of state median income OR
  • Income at or below 150% FPL if receiving other benefits
  • Connecticut resident

How to apply:

  • Contact local Community Action Agency
  • Call 2-1-1 for local CAP office locations
  • Apply through local fuel banks

Required documents:

  • Current utility bills
  • Proof of income for all household members
  • Photo ID and Social Security cards
  • Shutoff notice (if applicable)

Health Coverage for You and Your Kids

Connecticut has comprehensive health coverage through HUSKY Health.

HUSKY A (For Parents and Children)

Connecticut’s HUSKY Health provides no-cost Medicaid coverage.

Income limits (effective March 1, 2025):

Household Size HUSKY A (Parents) HUSKY A (Children)
2 people Under $29,187 Under $42,512
3 people Under $36,777 Under $53,567
4 people Under $44,367 Under $64,622
5 people Under $51,957 Under $75,677

Important Change: Connecticut lowered HUSKY A eligibility for parents from 160% to 138% of federal poverty level, but children maintain higher income limits.

Coverage includes:

  • Doctor visits and specialist care
  • Prescription medications
  • Mental health and substance abuse treatment
  • Hospital and emergency room care
  • Preventive care including mammograms and cancer screenings
  • Postpartum coverage extended to full year

HUSKY B (Children’s Health Insurance)

For children in families with income too high for HUSKY A but still need assistance.

Income ranges:

  • Band 1: $42,513-$53,721 (family of 2) – No premiums, some co-pays
  • Band 2: $53,722-$68,315 (family of 2) – $30/month for one child, $50/month for multiple children

HUSKY D (Adults Without Children)

For adults age 19-64 without dependent children.

Income limits:

  • 1 person: Under $21,597/year
  • 2 people: Under $29,187/year

How to apply for all HUSKY programs:

  • Online: ConneCT portal
  • Phone: (855) 626-6632
  • In person: Local DSS office

Processing time: Usually 30 days or less

Childcare Help While You Work or Go to School

Care 4 Kids

Connecticut’s childcare assistance program helps working parents and students.

Who qualifies:

  • Working parents (minimum 20 hours/week)
  • Parents in approved education/training programs
  • Income requirements vary by family size
  • Connecticut resident

How much you pay:

  • Co-payments based on income
  • Payments made directly to childcare provider
  • Lower income families pay less

Approved providers:

  • Licensed childcare centers
  • Licensed family childcare homes
  • Some approved relative care
  • Before/after school programs

How to apply:

  • Call (888) 214-5437
  • Online application through Care 4 Kids website
  • Processing time: 30-45 days

Reality Check: Waiting lists are common in urban areas. Apply as early as possible, even before you start work or school.

Head Start and Early Head Start

Free comprehensive early childhood programs for low-income families.

Head Start (Ages 3-5):

  • Free preschool education
  • Meals and snacks included
  • Health and dental screenings
  • Family support services

Early Head Start (Birth to 3):

  • Childcare for infants and toddlers
  • Home visiting programs
  • Parenting education

Income requirements:

  • Family income at or below 130% Federal Poverty Level
  • Automatic qualification for families receiving TFA, SNAP, or SSI

How to apply:

  • Call (860) 570-9030 for local programs
  • Applications typically open in spring for fall enrollment

Housing Help That Works

Finding safe, affordable housing is challenging. Here are programs that can help.

Connecticut Rental Assistance Program (RAP)

RAP helps low-income renters afford safe housing by paying for a portion of their rent.

How it works:

  • You choose rental housing
  • Program pays portion of rent directly to landlord
  • You pay remainder based on income

Who qualifies:

  • Income at or below 50% of area median income
  • Connecticut resident
  • Must meet program requirements

Types of housing:

  • Apartments, townhouses, single-family homes
  • Must meet quality and safety standards

How to apply:

  • Contact Connecticut Department of Housing at (860) 270-8260
  • Call 2-1-1 for local housing resources

Reality Check: Both RAP and Section 8 programs are currently closed due to waiting lists.

Emergency Rental Assistance

Several programs help if you’re behind on rent or facing eviction.

Available assistance:

  • Rent arrears
  • Utility assistance
  • Security deposits
  • Moving costs

How to get help:

  1. Call 2-1-1 for local emergency rental programs
  2. Contact local Community Action Agencies
  3. Contact Salvation Army locations throughout Connecticut
  4. Call landlord/tenant assistance programs in your area

Foreclosure Prevention

Connecticut offers mortgage assistance to prevent foreclosure.

Emergency Mortgage Assistance Program (EMAP):

  • 30-year fixed loan to help with current or past-due mortgage payments
  • Up to 60 months of assistance
  • Interest doesn’t accrue until you’re ready to repay

How to apply:

  • Call CHFA Customer Call Center at (860) 571-3500

Child Support Enforcement

Don’t overlook this important source of financial support.

Connecticut Child Support Services

What they provide:

  • Locate absent parents using state and federal databases
  • Establish paternity through genetic testing
  • Establish and modify support orders
  • Collect and distribute payments automatically
  • Enforce orders through wage garnishment

Who qualifies:

  • Any parent or caregiver with custody of a child
  • No income requirements
  • Available regardless of marital status

How to apply:

Costs:

  • $25 application fee for non-TFA families
  • Free for TFA recipients

What to expect:

  • Case opening: 1-2 weeks
  • Locating absent parent: 30-90 days
  • Setting support order: 90-180 days

Food Help Beyond SNAP

Connecticut Food Bank

Services available:

  • Emergency food boxes
  • Fresh produce distributions
  • Mobile food pantries
  • Supplemental foods

Main locations:

  • Hartford area: (203) 469-5000
  • New Haven area: Multiple distribution sites
  • Mobile pantries: Serving rural areas

What to bring:

  • Valid Connecticut photo ID
  • Proof of address
  • Information about household size

WIC (Women, Infants, and Children)

Connecticut’s WIC program provides nutrition assistance.

Who qualifies:

  • Pregnant, breastfeeding, or postpartum women
  • Children under age 5
  • Income at or below 185% Federal Poverty Level
  • Must be at “nutritional risk”

Benefits include:

  • Monthly food packages with specific healthy foods
  • Nutrition education and counseling
  • Breastfeeding support
  • Referrals to healthcare and social services

How to apply:

  • Call Connecticut WIC at (860) 509-8080
  • Must apply in person (no phone interviews)
  • Bring photo ID, proof of income, proof of address, immunization records

Support for All Types of Single Parent Families

Single Fathers

Most programs in this guide also serve single fathers raising children alone:

Available programs:

  • SNAP (food assistance) – same eligibility and benefits
  • TFA (cash assistance) – same income limits and requirements
  • HUSKY (healthcare) – full family coverage available
  • Child support services – help collecting from other parent
  • Housing assistance – RAP and emergency rental help
  • Childcare assistance – same work/school requirements

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren

Special considerations for kinship families:

TFA eligibility:

  • May qualify even if grandparent receives Social Security
  • Grandparent’s needs may not be included in benefit calculation
  • Special income limits may apply

Support services:

  • Kinship care support groups
  • Respite care services
  • Legal assistance for custody issues

Contact: Connecticut DCF Kinship Services for specific guidance

LGBTQ+ Single Parents

All Connecticut state programs serve LGBTQ+ parents without discrimination.

Support organizations:

  • Connecticut Coalition for LGBTQ+ Youth: Hartford area support
  • True Colors: Statewide LGBTQ+ support and resources
  • OutSpoken: New Haven area community center

Legal protections:

  • Connecticut law prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity
  • Same-sex couples eligible for all family programs
  • Name change assistance available through legal aid

Tribal Families

Federally recognized tribes in Connecticut:

  • Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation
  • Mohegan Tribe

Tribal services often include:

  • Tribal assistance programs
  • Healthcare through Indian Health Service
  • Educational assistance
  • Cultural programs

Note: Contact your specific tribal government for eligibility and program details.

Rural Connecticut Families

Additional challenges:

  • Limited public transportation
  • Fewer service providers
  • Longer travel distances to offices

Rural-specific resources:

  • Mobile food pantries: Serve rural areas regularly
  • 2-1-1: Especially important for finding local resources
  • Telehealth: HUSKY covers telehealth appointments
  • Transportation vouchers: Some agencies provide gas vouchers

Resources by Region

Hartford Area

Food Resources:

  • Connecticut Food Bank: (203) 469-5000
  • Foodshare: (860) 856-0503

Housing Help:

  • Community Renewal Team: (860) 560-5600
  • Salvation Army: Multiple locations

Legal Aid:

  • Greater Hartford Legal Aid: (860) 541-5000

New Haven Area

Food Resources:

  • Connecticut Food Bank: Multiple distribution sites
  • Downtown Evening Soup Kitchen: (203) 624-2378

Emergency Assistance:

  • Community Action Agency of New Haven: (203) 387-7700
  • S.M.A.R.T. program helps single mothers become more self-sufficient

Legal Aid:

  • New Haven Legal Assistance: (203) 946-4811

Fairfield County

Higher cost of living area with additional resources:

  • Norwalk Community Health Center: (203) 899-2611
  • Person-to-Person: (203) 869-9535

Eastern Connecticut

Rural area resources:

  • Eastern Connecticut CAA: (860) 889-1365
  • Thames Valley Council for Community Action: (860) 425-4301

Western Connecticut

Mountain/rural area support:

  • Northwest Connecticut CAA: (860) 379-2806
  • Torrington Area Health District: (860) 489-0436

How to Apply: Your 4-Week Action Plan

Week 1: Immediate Emergency Needs

Day 1-2:

  1. Apply for Emergency SNAP at ConneCT portal
  2. Call 2-1-1 for immediate crisis resources
  3. Contact Connecticut Food Bank at (203) 469-5000

Day 3-4: 4. Apply for HUSKY Health – same application as SNAP 5. Call utility companies if behind on bills
6. Contact local churches/nonprofits for emergency assistance

Day 5-7: 7. Gather required documents (see list below) 8. Follow up on SNAP application if no response within 7 days 9. Apply for WIC if you have children under 5

Week 2: Cash Assistance and Support Programs

Day 8-10:

  1. Apply for TFA (cash assistance) through ConneCT portal
  2. Apply for energy assistance through local CAP office
  3. Contact child support services at 1-800-647-8872

Day 11-14: 4. Apply for childcare assistance if working or in school 5. Research Head Start programs for children 3-5 6. Contact additional food banks for ongoing support

Week 3: Housing and Legal Support

Day 15-17:

  1. Contact housing authority about waiting lists
  2. Call landlord/tenant assistance if facing eviction
  3. Research emergency housing options

Day 18-21: 4. File taxes or contact VITA program for EITC: 1-800-906-9887 5. Contact legal aid if needed 6. Apply for additional local emergency assistance

Week 4: Long-term Planning and Education

Day 22-24:

  1. Research college programs and financial aid
  2. Complete FAFSA at studentaid.gov
  3. Contact community colleges about programs

Day 25-28: 4. Apply for state scholarships through CHESLA portal 5. Follow up on all pending applications 6. Create ongoing plan for managing benefits and requirements

Documents You Need (Prepare These First!)

Personal identification:

  • Connecticut driver’s license or state ID
  • Social Security cards for all family members
  • Birth certificates for all children
  • Immigration documents (if applicable)

Income and employment:

  • Pay stubs from last 30 days
  • Unemployment benefits statement
  • Self-employment records
  • Child support payment records

Housing and expenses:

  • Current lease or mortgage statement
  • Rent receipts for last 3 months
  • Utility bills (electric, gas, water, phone)
  • Childcare payment receipts

Financial information:

  • Bank statements for last 3 months
  • Vehicle registration and insurance
  • Medical bills and expenses
  • Court orders (if applicable)

What to Do When You’re Denied

Don’t give up! Most denials can be resolved.

Common Denial Reasons

Missing information:

  • Incomplete application
  • Missing required documents
  • Failed to attend required interview
  • Income not properly documented

Eligibility issues:

  • Income appears too high (often calculation errors)
  • Didn’t meet residency requirements
  • Failed to meet work requirements
  • Assets over program limits

Your Legal Rights

Appeal process:

  • 30-day deadline to request appeal
  • Right to continued benefits during appeal (if already receiving)
  • Right to fair hearing
  • Right to bring advocate or attorney

How to appeal:

  1. Request appeal in writing within 30 days
  2. State specific reasons you disagree
  3. Submit additional documentation
  4. Attend hearing or participate by phone
  5. Receive written decision within 60 days

Getting Help with Appeals

Free legal assistance:

  • Statewide Legal Services: 1-800-453-3320
  • Greater Hartford Legal Aid: (860) 541-5000
  • New Haven Legal Assistance: (203) 946-4811
  • Connecticut Legal Services: (860) 344-0380

Common Questions Single Mothers Ask (FAQs)

Q: Can I get help if I’m working? A: Yes! Most programs allow working families:

  • SNAP: Up to 200% of poverty level ($4,108/month for family of 3)
  • HUSKY A (children): Up to $53,567/year for family of 3
  • Childcare assistance: Available for working parents
  • Tax credits: Designed specifically for working families

Q: How long do applications take to process? A: Processing times vary:

  • SNAP: 1-30 days (1-7 days if emergency)
  • TFA: Up to 45 days
  • HUSKY: Usually 30 days or less
  • Childcare assistance: 30-45 days

Q: What if I have a criminal record? A: You can still qualify for most programs:

  • SNAP (food assistance)
  • HUSKY (healthcare)
  • Housing assistance
  • WIC
  • Some restrictions may apply to TFA depending on conviction type

Q: Can I apply for multiple programs at once? A: Yes! ConneCT portal allows you to apply for SNAP, TFA, and HUSKY with one application.

Q: Do I have to pay anything back? A: Most programs don’t require repayment:

  • Never repay: SNAP, HUSKY, WIC, energy assistance, tax credits
  • Education grants: May have requirements like staying in Connecticut after graduation
  • Overpayments: Must repay if you received too much due to unreported income changes

Q: What if my English is limited? A: Language assistance is available:

  • All state programs provide free interpreters
  • ConneCT portal available in Spanish
  • Call (855) 626-6632 for multilingual assistance
  • Request interpreter when scheduling appointments

Q: Can undocumented immigrants get help? A: Limited programs available:

  • Emergency HUSKY: Emergency medical care only
  • WIC: Available without documentation requirements
  • Food banks: Most don’t require documentation
  • Emergency assistance: Many nonprofits provide help regardless of status

Q: How do I get help filling out applications? A: Free application assistance available:

  • DSS offices: Staff provide in-person help
  • 2-1-1: Connect you with local navigators
  • Legal aid organizations: Application assistance
  • Community Action Programs: Case managers help with applications

Warning Signs and Red Flags

Scams to Avoid

Grant scams:

  • Red flag: Requests upfront fees for “guaranteed grants”
  • Reality: Legitimate government programs never charge application fees
  • Action: Report to Connecticut Attorney General: (860) 808-5318

Benefits card scams:

  • Red flag: Calls asking for your EBT card number or PIN
  • Reality: DSS will never call asking for card information
  • Action: Never give card information over phone; call DSS directly

Program Warnings

TFA time limits:

  • Connecticut has second-shortest time limit nationally at 21 months
  • Very limited extensions available
  • Plan for transition off benefits

Waiting lists reality:

  • Housing assistance: Often 1-3 year waits
  • Childcare assistance: May have waiting lists in urban areas
  • Apply early and to multiple programs

Work requirements:

  • Most programs require work, school, or job training
  • Exemptions limited and temporary
  • Sanctions can reduce or eliminate benefits

Emergency Resources and Crisis Numbers

Immediate Crisis Help

Food emergency:

  • Connecticut Food Bank: (203) 469-5000
  • 2-1-1: Find local food pantries
  • Emergency SNAP: Apply at connect.ct.gov

Housing emergency:

  • 2-1-1: Emergency shelter and rental assistance
  • Connecticut Coalition to End Homelessness: (860) 721-7876

Utilities shut-off:

  • Energy assistance: Contact local CAP office
  • 2-1-1: Emergency utility assistance programs

Medical emergency:

  • 911: Life-threatening emergencies
  • Emergency HUSKY: Available for emergency medical care
  • Community health centers: Call 2-1-1 for locations

Crisis and Mental Health Support

Crisis intervention:

  • Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
  • Connecticut Crisis Line: 2-1-1 (24/7)

Domestic violence:

  • Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence: 1-888-774-2900
  • Safe Connect: 1-888-774-2900 (24/7 hotline)
  • Local shelters: Call 2-1-1 for immediate shelter options

Mental health crisis:

  • Connecticut Crisis Response: 1-800-563-4086
  • Mobile crisis teams: Available through local hospitals
  • HUSKY covers mental health services

Legal Emergencies

Eviction and landlord issues:

  • Statewide Legal Services: 1-800-453-3320
  • Greater Hartford Legal Aid: (860) 541-5000
  • Tenant rights information: Available through legal aid

Family law and custody:

  • Family court self-help centers: At all superior court locations
  • Connecticut Legal Services: (860) 344-0380
  • Child custody assistance: Through legal aid organizations

Resources and Important Phone Numbers

Statewide Resources

Primary contact numbers:

  • 2-1-1: Information and referral service (24/7) – Your first call for any crisis
  • Connecticut Department of Social Services: (855) 626-6632
  • ConneCT Portal: connect.ct.gov – Apply for benefits online

Application and benefits:

  • SNAP/TFA/HUSKY applications: connect.ct.gov
  • Child support services: 1-800-647-8872
  • WIC program: (860) 509-8080
  • Care 4 Kids (childcare): (888) 214-5437

Emergency Numbers

Immediate crisis:

  • Emergency services: 911
  • Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
  • Connecticut Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-888-774-2900

Food assistance:

  • Connecticut Food Bank: (203) 469-5000
  • Foodshare (Hartford area): (860) 856-0503

Housing crisis:

  • Connecticut Coalition to End Homelessness: (860) 721-7876
  • 2-1-1: Emergency shelter and housing assistance

Legal and Advocacy Help

Free legal assistance:

  • Statewide Legal Services: 1-800-453-3320
  • Greater Hartford Legal Aid: (860) 541-5000
  • New Haven Legal Assistance: (203) 946-4811
  • Connecticut Legal Services: (860) 344-0380

Benefits advocacy:

  • Community Action Agencies: Contact 2-1-1 for local office
  • Disability Rights Connecticut: (860) 297-4300

Educational Resources

College and financial aid:

Adult education:

  • Connecticut State Community College: Contact local campus
  • Adult education programs: Through local school districts
  • GED testing: ged.com or call local community college

Specialized Services

Tax assistance:

  • IRS VITA Program: 1-800-906-9887
  • Connecticut tax help: Through VITA sites statewide

Healthcare navigation:

  • Access Health CT: accesshealthct.com or (855) 805-4325
  • HUSKY Health customer service: (855) 626-6632

Transportation assistance:

  • CTtransit: (860) 522-8101
  • Rural transit: Call 2-1-1 for local options
  • Medical transportation: Through HUSKY Health

Useful Websites

Government portals:

Resource finders:

Nonprofit organizations:

Success Stories and Reality Checks

What Success Looks Like

Sarah’s Story (Composite based on typical experiences): “I started with emergency SNAP when my hours were cut to part-time. I applied for TFA and got $500 a month for my family of three. With childcare assistance through Care 4 Kids, I was able to go back to school for my nursing degree. I used the Roberta B. Willis scholarship and Pell grants to cover tuition. Two years later, I graduated and now work as an RN making $65,000/year – enough to support my kids without benefits.”

Key factors in Sarah’s success:

  • Applied for multiple programs simultaneously
  • Used childcare assistance to pursue education
  • Took advantage of both state and federal education grants
  • Planned for transition off benefits within time limits

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Challenge: “Too much paperwork and appointments” Solution:

  • Use ConneCT portal to apply for multiple programs at once
  • Schedule multiple appointments on same day when possible
  • Keep organized file of all documents
  • Ask case workers about required vs. optional meetings

Challenge: “21-month time limit on cash assistance” Solution:

  • Use TFA time to gain education, training, or work experience
  • Apply for extensions if eligible (very limited)
  • Plan for transition by building job skills
  • Combine with other programs that don’t have time limits

Challenge: “Benefits not enough to live on” Solution:

  • Combine multiple programs (SNAP + TFA + HUSKY + housing assistance)
  • Utilize tax credits (EITC can provide thousands annually)
  • Access free services (WIC, food banks, childcare)
  • Focus on education/training to increase income long-term

Challenge: “Waiting lists for housing and childcare” Solution:

  • Apply to multiple programs and housing authorities
  • Get on waiting lists early, even before desperately needed
  • Use interim services while waiting (food banks, temporary assistance)
  • Stay in contact with programs – spots sometimes open unexpectedly

Realistic Expectations

Timeline for help:

  • Emergency food: 1-3 days
  • SNAP benefits: 1-30 days
  • Cash assistance: 30-45 days
  • Housing assistance: 6 months to 3+ years (waiting lists)
  • Educational programs: Next enrollment period

Benefit amounts reality:

  • TFA provides modest assistance ($500-833/month maximum for family of 3)
  • SNAP covers about 75% of food costs
  • Housing assistance has long waiting lists
  • Educational grants are competitive and have deadlines

Work requirements:

  • Most programs require work, school, or job training
  • Exemptions available for some situations (disability, very young children)
  • Programs provide support but expect participation

Appeals Process Step-by-Step

Step 1: Request Appeal (Within 30 Days)

How to request:

  • Online: Through ConneCT portal
  • Phone: Call (855) 626-6632
  • In writing: Send letter to address on denial notice
  • In person: Visit local DSS office

What to include:

  • Your name and case number
  • Date of denial decision
  • Specific reasons you disagree
  • Any new information or documents

Step 2: Prepare for Your Hearing

Gather evidence:

  • Copy of original application
  • All documents you submitted
  • Denial letter with reasons
  • New documents that support your case
  • Witness statements (if applicable)

Understand the issues:

  • Review denial reasons carefully
  • Identify what needs to be proven
  • Organize documents by issue
  • Prepare simple explanation of your situation

Step 3: Attend Your Hearing

Hearing format:

  • Usually by phone (can request in-person)
  • Informal proceedings – no strict court rules
  • You can bring representative or advocate
  • Hearing usually lasts 30-60 minutes

What to expect:

  • Hearing officer explains process
  • Agency presents their case first
  • You present your evidence and testimony
  • Hearing officer may ask questions
  • You can respond to agency’s arguments

Step 4: Receive Decision

Timeline:

  • Decision issued within 60 days of hearing
  • Written decision sent by mail
  • Decision explains reasons and next steps

Possible outcomes:

  • Appeal granted: Benefits approved or restored
  • Appeal denied: Original denial upheld
  • Partial approval: Some benefits approved, others denied
  • Remand: Case sent back for additional review

Disclaimer

Important Notice About Information Currency

Program details, eligibility requirements, and benefit amounts change frequently due to federal and state policy updates, funding changes, and legislative action. All information in this guide was compiled and verified using official government sources as of August 2025, but policies may have changed since publication.

Verification Requirements:

  • Always verify current information directly with the relevant agency before making decisions
  • Contact program offices for the most up-to-date eligibility requirements and benefit amounts
  • Check official websites for any recent policy changes or updates

Limitations:

  • This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal, financial, or benefits counseling advice
  • Individual circumstances vary and may affect program eligibility
  • Processing times and benefit amounts may differ from those listed
  • Some programs may have waiting lists or limited funding not reflected in this guide

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

The ASingleMother.org team has been researching and writing comprehensive benefits guides for single mothers across all 50 states since 2020. Our editorial team regularly updates these guides by reviewing official government sources, contacting state agencies, and incorporating feedback from hundreds of single mothers who have used these programs.

This Connecticut guide represents over 5 years of experience helping single mothers navigate the benefits system. We verify information with official sources including Connecticut Department of Social Services, USDA, IRS, and Connecticut Office of Higher Education to ensure accuracy.

Information compiled from official Connecticut Department of Social Services, Connecticut Office of Higher Education, USDA, HHS, and local nonprofit sources. Last verified: August 2025.

The ASingleMother.org editorial team welcomes feedback on this guide. If you find outdated information or discover new resources, please contact us at info@asinglemother.org so we can help other single mothers with accurate, current information.

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