Help in Connecticut
For people starting over after prison, foster care, treatment, homelessness, abuse, or trafficking
We've verified 20 places in Connecticut, most of them in Hartford, Bridgeport and New Haven, plus 11 that serve the whole state. The most help we've found here is for people leaving homelessness (10) and after prison or jail (9).
2-1-1 Connecticut
Connecticut's information and referral line for food, housing, utility help, mental health, substance use, and crisis intervention. It is also the front door for shelter referrals statewide; dial 2-1-1 from any phone.
Love146 Survivor Care
Statewide Connecticut program for young people who are confirmed survivors of, or at high risk for, human trafficking. Provides long-term survivor care and transitional services for youth 16 and older. For urgent help, Love146 points to the National Human Trafficking Hotline.
ConneCT – Apply for SNAP and Other Benefits
Connecticut's online portal for SNAP food benefits, HUSKY Medicaid, and cash assistance. Applications can also be mailed or filed in person at a DSS office. Decisions take up to 30 days, or 7 days for households with very little income or cash on hand.
National lines that work in Connecticut
SAMHSA National Helpline
Free, confidential treatment referral for substance use and mental health. Finds local programs that take your insurance or none.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Call or text 988 for any mental health or substance use crisis. Available to anyone in any program.
Lifeline free phone program
Free or discounted phone and service for people on Medicaid, SNAP, SSI, or low income. Apply online or through a carrier.
National Human Trafficking Hotline
24/7 confidential hotline for survivors of trafficking and people who suspect it. Connects to vetted local services.
National Domestic Violence Hotline
24/7 confidential help for anyone affected by domestic violence. Advocates connect you to local shelters and legal help.
Start right where you are
Each program has a step-by-step checklist for the first 72 hours, 30 days, and 90 days, so you always know your next step.