State Moves to Help Residents Losing Unemployment Benefits

The state announced this week that the Department of Labor and the Department of Social Services will work together to provide help to people who are losing unemployment benefits.

United Way 2-1-1 will coordinate the services, which will include access to social service and workforce development programs.

“While a lower unemployment rate is good news overall, for residents in jeopardy of losing their benefits, we have a clear obligation to make sure they are aware of the assistance that’s available,” Gov. Dannel P. Malloy said.  “Our Department of Labor and Department of Social Services have a clear mission — to make sure that our state’s safety net is in place and helping residents during this difficult time."

When Connecticut's unemployment rate dropped to 7.7 percent, state residents became ineligible for an extended benefits period that went beyond the 73 weeks now available.

The state's plan calls for the labor and social services departments to reach out to those losing unemployment benefits to inform them of programs that might help them.

“We are working with community partners to make Connecticut’s safety net services, including food and medical assistance, more accessible to citizens who become eligible after losing unemployment benefits,” said DSS Commissioner Roderick Bremby. 

Richard Porth, President and CEO of the United Way of Connecticut, had this message for those running out of benefits: “United Way 2-1-1 is ready to assist those who are facing the loss of their unemployment benefits. 2-1-1 call specialists will screen these callers for eligibility for SNAP/food stamps, health care coverage, child care assistance and other benefits.  2-1-1 call specialists are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to assist Connecticut residents find the help they need. Our 2-1-1 database can also be searched online at www.211ct.org.”