From the onset of the economic collapse, the number of Stonington residents receiving food stamps has increased by 108 percent. The increase follows a statewide trend that based on figures reported by the Hartford Courant, show food stamp usage among Connecticut residents grew by 53 percent between 2007 and 2010.
The numbers show that Stonington went from 490 food stamp recipients in 2007 to 1,019 in 2010.
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program offers food based on income. For a family of four, the qualifying monthly income is $1,838.
While governmental assistance has skyrocketed, the demand from local organizations has . The on 27 Chase Street in Pawcatuck accepts food donations.
In Stonington, Mystic and Pawcatuck food stamps are accepted at , Big Y, , , , Best Way Food Mart, , Stop & Shop,
To see how the need for food assistance has grown in other Connecticut towns, click here for a PDF of the information provided by the Hartford Courant.
