Dear John,

Welcome to your Weekly Wrap, a recap of the week in Congress and highlights of my work.

Last week, I visited the Greater Waterbury Interfaith Ministries (GWIM) soup kitchen and food pantry, which serves daily hot meals to approximately 450 people per week. Also, I met with CT-05 farmers and representatives from Arthur Carroll Insurance Agency to discuss the proposed changes to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Risk Management Agency Apple Crop Insurance Policy. As the effects of climate change continue to cause extreme weather events, crop insurance is critical for farmers and producers.

More from the week: I co-led the introduction of the Stop Child Hunger Act with Rep. Mike Levin (CA-49). This legislation would expand the Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) program to all school closures longer than five consecutive days. Also, I am happy to share both my Washington, D.C., and Waterbury offices are accepting applications for the Fall 2023 internship program.

 For the full recap, please read below.

Greater Waterbury Interfaith Ministries Soup Kitchen

For over 80 years, Greater Waterbury Interfaith Ministries (GWIM) has poured into the greater Waterbury community, providing a range of services, including an emergency food pantry, a daily soup kitchen, and a resource center. 

On Tuesday, I visited their soup kitchen, which provides approximately 450 hot meals Monday through Friday and additional bagged lunches on weekends. I also toured the emergency food pantry, which distributes groceries periodically throughout the month.

My afternoon at GWIM reminded me of what I already know – so many rely on food pantries and their services. This includes everyone from individuals experiencing homelessness to individuals working two jobs.

I am steadfast in my commitment to improving access to healthy meals and ending hunger.

Meeting with Arthur Carroll Crop Insurance Agency

On Thursday, I met with CT-05 farmers and representatives from Arthur Carroll Insurance Agency at March Farm in Bethlehem.

During the meeting, we discussed proposed changes the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Risk Management Agency is making to its Apple Crop Insurance Policy. Crop insurance is critical for farmers and producers. Recently, I joined Rep. McGovern (MA-02) in sending a letter to the Risk Management Agency asking the department to ensure that New England apple growers are not adversely impacted. Additionally, I joined members of the Connecticut Delegation in requesting an agricultural emergency disaster declaration following extreme temperatures in May. 

The Stop Child Hunger Act

Last week, I co-led the reintroduction of the Stop Child Hunger Act alongside Rep. Mike Levin (CA-49). The legislation expands on federal efforts to keep children fed year-round.

As part of the Fiscal Year 2023 government package, Congress established a permanent Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) program to continue school meal funding for families in need over summer vacation. The Stop Child Hunger Act of 2023 would expand the Summer EBT program to all school closures longer than five consecutive days.

Additionally, the legislation would allow eligible households to use EBT cards to purchase food from retail food stores that have been approved for participation in the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP). 

To learn more about the Stop Child Hunger Act, please click here.

Fall 2023 Internship Applications

Are you a college graduate, student, or recent graduate interested in public service? My Waterbury and Washington, D.C. offices are accepting applications for the Fall 2023 internship program. Interns will have the opportunity to connect directly with constituents, assist with constituent casework, coordinate and conduct tours, research legislation, and develop community outreach. 

The Fall 2023 internship application can be found here. Applications will close on July 28, 2023, at 11:59 PM. 

Casework Highlight

“I cannot thank Congresswoman Hayes and her incredible staff enough for the help they gave me with my passport application. At first, it did not look like I would get my passport in time for my trip due to the increasing backlog at the passport agency, but with their help I was able to get my passport with a couple days to spare and go on a very special trip with my family. I honestly would not have made it on this trip if it were not for everyone who helped on behalf of Congresswoman Hayes. Thank you again for your willingness to help.

- Morgan, Simsbury 

Lastly, as we celebrate Independence Day tomorrow, I wish you and your families a safe and joyous holiday. 

And that’s a wrap!

Thank you for taking the time to read this update. As always, please continue to share your thoughts and priorities with me. 

Jahana Hayes

Member of Congress