Connecticut Mobilizes Local Content Creators to Support Residents as SNAP Benefits End
New Statewide Group Activated to Drive Donations to Connecticut Foodshare
Hartford, CT — SNAP benefits that have provided additional food assistance to thousands of Connecticut households are set to end tomorrow. In response, the Connecticut Office of Statewide Marketing & Tourism is activating its newly formed Connecticut Content Creator Collaborative (C4) to help raise awareness and drive community support for residents experiencing food insecurity. C4, an innovative statewide network of digital storytellers and content creators, partners to amplify Connecticut’s small businesses, local experiences, and community causes.
For their inaugural effort, the group has been called upon to share messages of support and encourage donations to Connecticut Foodshare, the statewide nonprofit working to meet the increased need.
“In Connecticut, we know that community is our strength,” said Anthony Anthony, Chief Marketing Officer for the State of Connecticut. “Content creators are cultural connectors. They shape how people think about our state: where they travel, what they try, how they get involved. At a moment when more families may be facing food insecurity, we’re asking our creators to use their megaphones for good by ensuring no one goes hungry during this challenging time.”
Participating content creators supporting this initiative include JimyOfficial, Reheated Coffee Club, Connecticut Bucket List, Alexa Curtis, ESPN Anchor Arda Ocal, WICC Radio Host Melissa Sheketoff, Michael Pollack of New Haven Pizza Club, and Joe Massaro of New Haven Pizza Crew — spanning lifestyle, dining, culture, family, and community engagement audiences.
Together, these creators are encouraging residents to support their neighbors — whether by donating at ctfoodshare.org, volunteering with Connecticut Foodshare, or bringing nonperishables to a local food pantry. Nearby pantry locations can be found at 211ct.org.
“We are deeply concerned about what happens on November 1st,” said Jason Jakubowski, President & CEO of Connecticut Foodshare. “The loss of SNAP benefits will have an immediate and profound impact—especially on families already struggling to make ends meet. Food insecurity is not theoretical. It affects our neighbors, co-workers, classmates, and friends. We’re grateful to the Connecticut influencers who have been tremendous partners in helping us raise awareness about this issue and encouraging others to take action.”
How Residents Can Help
- Donate securely online at ctfoodshare.org
- Run a peer fundraising campaign: Virtual Food Drive. (For more info, email Meg Dubois, [email protected].)
- Find a local food pantry at 211ct.org and provide needed food items
“These creators have earned the trust of their communities,” added Anthony. “Their voices can help ensure that no one feels alone during this transition, and that support reaches every corner of the state.
About Connecticut Foodshare
Connecticut Foodshare works to eliminate hunger in Connecticut by providing food assistance, community programs, and support services statewide. Learn more at ctfoodshare.org.
About the Connecticut Content Creator Collaborative (C4)
Formed in 2025, the Connecticut Content Creator Consortium (C4) was established to support the state’s growing creator community and to help small businesses, organizations, and municipalities more easily collaborate with local content creators. The consortium serves as a bridge — making it simpler for creators to work together, and for businesses and communities to access the storytelling power and reach these creators hold. By fostering these connections, C4 helps strengthen local businesses and industries, driving economic impact across the state.
One example of this work is the inclusion of Kathleen Roche of Connecticut Bucket List, who will lead a breakout session at the upcoming Reputation MADE event on November 6, where she will share best practices for effective creator collaboration and partnership.
