Author: sdozapier@senatedems.ct.gov

Duff Passes $5 Million in State Investment for Norwalk at CIF Meeting

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Senator Duff Passes $5 Million in State Investment for Norwalk at CIF Meeting

Round 8 awards include $3 million for affordable housing on South Main Street and $2 million for mental health services on East Avenue

HARTFORD — Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk) today announced that two Norwalk projects received a combined $5 million in state funding through Round 8 of the Community Investment Fund 2030 at the CIF board meeting.

As the Majority Leader in the Senate, Senator Duff serves on the 21-member CIF Board.

Sound Communities, Inc. will receive $3 million for its affordable senior housing project at 79 South Main Street and the Mid-Fairfield Child Guidance Center will receive $2 million to acquire a facility at 98 East Avenue.

Sound Communities, Inc. is redeveloping a half-acre transit-oriented site at 79 South Main Street and 6-8 Chestnut Street in South Norwalk, adjacent to the Metro-North station, to build 68 new affordable one- and two-bedroom units for seniors 62 and older. The project will replace outdated public housing at Leroy Downs on Monroe Street, relocating all 49 existing households while adding 19 new affordable senior units to the neighborhood.

Mid-Fairfield Child Guidance Center will use its $2 million award to purchase its longtime home at 98 East Avenue, where it currently rents and serves more than 2,500 children, adolescents, young adults, and caregivers each year through behavioral health services including therapy, psychiatric evaluation, crisis stabilization, and school-based mental health programs in Norwalk Public Schools. More than 70 percent of Mid-Fairfield’s clients are covered by Medicaid or are uninsured. Acquiring the property will provide the organization with long-term operational stability and remove annual rental costs that can be redirected toward expanded services.

“The need for low-income senior housing is critical in Norwalk and across Connecticut as we see a rising number of seniors facing homelessness,” said Adam Bovilsky, Norwalk Housing Executive Director. “This funding will help us build a new affordable housing development that directly addresses the growing shortage of safe, affordable homes for low-income seniors.”

“Mid-Fairfield Child Guidance Center (Mid-Fairfield Community Care Center) is grateful to Senator Bob Duff and the Community Investment Fund for supporting our successful application to acquire the 98 East Avenue Buildings,” said Gail Melanson, Ph.D., Executive Director, Mid-Fairfield Child Guidance Center. “This investment strengthens the long-term stability of our organization and helps us meet the growing demand for behavioral health services for children, families, and adults across our region. Each year, more than 2,500 people turn to Mid-Fairfield for care, guidance, and support, and this investment helps ensure those services remain strong and accessible to the communities we serve. Senator Duff’s partnership plays an important role in helping us continue that work for children and families throughout the communities we serve.”

“This is $5 million going directly into Norwalk to support housing and mental health services for kids and families,” said Senator Duff. “These are two great organizations in our community. Sound Communities puts roofs over people’s heads on South Main Streets, and the Child Guidance Center is one of the most important resources we have for young people in this city. I’ve been fighting for both of these projects, and I’m glad to see them get across the finish line today.”

“Senior housing and behavioral health services for younger residents are a vital part of a thriving community. These projects will ensure that Norwalk residents have better access to the best care and supports possible across the lifespan. Thank you to the CIF board, including House Speaker Ritter and House Majority Leader Rojas, for your consideration,” said Rep. Dominque Johnson.

“These state investments reflect our commitment to meeting urgent community needs,” said Rep. Lucy Dathan. “Affordable housing on South Main Street will help create safe and stable homes for families, while the funding for mental health services on East Avenue expands access to critical care. Together, these projects strengthen the foundation for a healthier and more resilient community.”

“This $5 million investment through the Community Investment Fund directly addresses two urgent needs in Norwalk: affordable housing and access to mental health care,” said Rep. Travis Simms. “The South Main Street project will create 68 modern affordable apartments for seniors while replacing aging public housing, allowing longtime residents to remain in our community. At the same time, the funding for Mid-Fairfield Child Guidance Center will help secure a permanent home for services that support more than 2,500 children and families each year. This is a meaningful investment in housing stability, youth mental health, and the long-term strength of our community.”

“Sound Communities and Mid-Fairfield Child Guidance Center have both provided invaluable services to our community, and I am thrilled that they will receive much needed funding to maintain and expand upon their excellent work. Thank you to the CIF board for their continued investment in Norwalk,” said Rep. Kadeem Roberts.

“We are so grateful to Senator Duff and his advocacy for this funding for Norwalk,” said Norwalk Mayor Smyth. “Affordable housing, especially for seniors, is crucial and the $3 million for Sound Communities, Inc. will go a long way to help build 68 new affordable units for those 62 and older. And I’m so glad that Mid Fairfield Care Community Center will have a permanent home at 98 East Avenue. Mid Fairfield is a crucial resource for our youth and families here in Norwalk and this will help them continue to provide much needed services while giving them long-term operational stability by removing annual rental costs.”

The Community Investment Fund 2030 was created by the Connecticut General Assembly to direct state bond funding to municipalities and nonprofits for community development, housing, health services, and economic revitalization projects. Round 8 awarded $62.9 million to 38 projects statewide.

Stamford Delegation Applauds $13.25 Million Recommendation for Community Projects

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Stamford Delegation Applauds $13.25 Million Recommendation for Community Projects

Members of Stamford’s legislative delegation this week applauded the Community Investment Fund Board’s recommendation of $13.25 million in funding for three Stamford projects that would strengthen early childhood education, advance affordable housing development, and expand substance use treatment services.

The recommendations now await final approval from the State Bond Commission which will meet in the next few months to review the CIF Board’s proposals.

“These three projects represent thoughtful investments in the future of our community,” Senator Pat Billie Miller, D-Stamford, said. “They seek to give our youngest children the strongest start possible, create pathways to affordable housing, while also planning for an expanded treatment facility to meet the needs of women in recovery. I want to thank the Community Investment Fund Board for recognizing the importance of these projects. I look forward to the Bond Commission’s approval so we can move forward with this critical work in Stamford.”

“This funding will bring significant benefits to our region, adding hundreds of new affordable housing units to our community, adding new resources and space for treatment of women working to overcome addiction and providing new environments for learning in Fairfield County,” Senator Ceci Maher, D-Wilton, said. “I’m grateful to Governor Lamont and the Community Investment Fund for their investments in Stamford.”

“Public dollars should deliver public good, and these investments do exactly that by strengthening opportunities for children and families across Stamford,” Rep. Corey Paris, D-Stamford, said. “For more than 120 years, the Children’s Learning Centers have been a cornerstone of early childhood education in our community, with nearly 40 percent of Stamford Public Schools students beginning their educational journey through CLC programs. Investments in facilities like the Grove Head Start center ensure our youngest learners have safe, high-quality environments to grow and succeed.

“I’m grateful the Community Investment Fund also recognized the need to expand affordable housing and support women in recovery through Liberation House, and I look forward to the State Bond Commission’s final approval.”

“These investments represent a meaningful commitment to Stamford’s future and the well-being of our residents,” Rep. Matt Blumenthal, D-Stamford, said. “From expanding early childhood education opportunities to preparing sites for affordable housing and strengthening substance use treatment services, these projects will have a lasting impact on families across our community. I am grateful to the Connecticut Community Investment Fund and Ned Lamont for believing in these initiatives and for continuing to invest in the people and promise of Stamford.”

“This funding represents important investments in Stamford’s future,” Rep. Jonathan Jacobson, D-Stamford, said. “From strengthening early childhood education to advancing affordable housing and supporting treatment services for women in recovery, these projects address real needs in our community. I am particularly encouraged to see support for the renovation and modernization of Liberation House. “I thank the Community Investment Fund for recognizing the importance of these initiatives and look forward to final approval from the State Bond Commission.”

“I am grateful to the Community Investment Fund Board for investing in these important projects across Stamford,” Rep. Eilish Collins Main, D-Stamford, said. “This funding will support critical services that many residents rely on. Projects including  advancing affordable housing development at St. John Towers, strengthening early learning at Children’s Learning Centers of Fairfield County, and investing in services at Liberation Programs Inc.,  will help meet the needs of our community and allow Stamford to continue to grow and thrive.”

“The Stamford Delegation knows how important it is to bring real resources home to our community. This funding will expand early childhood education through the Grove Head Start project, prepare the St. John Towers for future affordable housing, and support recovery services for women through Liberation Programs. These investments strengthen families, create opportunity, and help ensure Stamford continues to grow in a way that supports the people who live here,” Rep. Hubert Delany, D-Stamford, said.

SENATOR MARX WELCOMES $1.65 MILLION IN MONTVILLE, NEW LONDON COMMUNITY PROJECT SUPPORT

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SENATOR MARX WELCOMES $1.65 MILLION IN MONTVILLE, NEW LONDON COMMUNITY PROJECT SUPPORT

March 11, 2026

On Tuesday, with the Community Investment Fund’s approval of its eighth round of projects, State Senator Martha Marx (D-New London) welcomed a total of $1.65 million in state funding set to be released for Montville and New London.

Upon the State Bond Commission’s final approval of the funds’ release, Montville will receive $1.15 million to support improvements to the Camp Oakdale complex and New London will receive two $250,000 allocations, which will respectively support planning for a new living system supporting people with certain conditions at Mitchell College and the New London Public Market. Sen. Marx wrote letters of support for all three projects.

“It’s incredible for our communities to again receive support through the Community Investment Fund, which is working to ensure the state’s underserved communities can receive new focus on economic development,” said Sen. Marx. “Modernizing Montville’s recreational centerpiece, working to provide better resources for those in need in New London and providing a year-round market for local businesses all stand to benefit our community, and I’m grateful to Governor Lamont and the CIF Board for considering these projects.”

With today’s CIF approvals, the following projects will move forward:

  • Montville will receive $1.15 million to support nearly $4 million in capital improvement programming at the town’s Camp Oakdale complex, its recreational open-space and athletic resource. The project will include new amenities as well as upgrades, repairs and improvements to the complex’s aging facilities to make sure they can continue meeting community needs.
  • New London’s Mitchell College will receive $250,000 for a planning study of its Living/Learning Ecosystem, designed for adults with neurodivergences, intellectual and developmental disabilities, mental health conditions, physical disabilities or other conditions that can represent barriers to employment. They will receive structured support to achieve independent living and meaningful employment.
  • The New London Public Market Corporation will receive $250,000 to assist with planning for a year-round offering of owner-operated shops, stalls and tables in a public market setting, to be located on the ground floor and basement of the Cronin Building at 80-88 State Street.

HOUSING COMMITTEE ADVANCES ‘JUST CAUSE’ LEGISLATION, SEEKING TO PROVIDE MORE PROTECTIONS TO RENTERS

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HOUSING COMMITTEE ADVANCES ‘JUST CAUSE’ LEGISLATION, SEEKING TO PROVIDE MORE PROTECTIONS TO RENTERS

March 11, 2026

On Tuesday, the Housing Committee passed legislation requiring a “Just Cause” for evictions after a certain amount of time a tenant rents a location, expanding those protections to meet the needs of more Connecticut residents.

Current eviction laws in Connecticut allow a landlord to evict a tenant at the end of a lease at their own discretion save for certain situations where that tenant is elderly, blind or disabled. That leaves many more renters without protections, and they can suddenly find themselves thrust into housing insecurity or homelessness with little warning or recourse.

“If struggling households working to pay their bills didn’t already have enough issues, the threat of an eviction hanging over their heads only makes the affordability crisis worse for them,” said State Senator Martha Marx (D-New London), Senate Chair of the Housing Committee. “Expanding ‘Just Cause’ to cover more state residents eases the worst of that stress without harming property owners’ ability to evict in situations calling for it. Evictions still take place today for reasons beyond missing rent payments or committing crimes in a unit. We all know it. This bill helps protect tenants when their rights are at risk, and I’m excited to bring it out on the Senate floor.”

Senate Bill 257, “An Act Concerning Evictions For Cause,” would require a reason for eviction for tenants who have lived in a complex with five or more units for tenants who have rented for a year and who are in good standing. Reasons for eviction can include nonpayment of rent, nuisance behavior, noncompliance with leases or illegal activities, and the expiration of a rental agreement could also lead to eviction in certain circumstances.

The bill effectively provides residents with security in response to landlords having the ability to evict for no reason at the end of a lease period.

The new protections are not valid if a landlord didn’t issue a notice to quit during the first year of a lease or has a summary process enacted against them within 90 days of the lease ending.

  • Among the most important protections “Just Cause” would enact for Connecticut residents include prevention against retaliation if a renter files a complaint about living conditions in their home or a landlord sells a property to another owner.

The bill received more than 200 testimonials in support, including by Ed Hawthorne, the President of the Connecticut AFL-CIO, who testified the bill would protect tenants from “retaliatory no-fault evictions” in an environment where no-fault evictions have nearly doubled since the COVID-19 pandemic. About 11% of all eviction filings are no-fault evictions, which Hawthorne said can come after requests for repairs, reports of unsafe conditions or neighbors organizing for better living conditions.

“Requiring justification for eviction, rather than placing the burden on renters to prove discrimination or retaliation, is a commonsense measure that protects families from housing instability,” Hawthorne said.

Kathleen Flaherty, executive director of the Connecticut Legal Rights Project, testified that protections currently available to some tenants should be expanded, especially as the bill does not target small landlords with fewer than five units.

“Expanding just cause protections to more renters will result in increased housing stability,” said Flaherty, who said the new policy could lead to a 10% drop in evictions.

The Open Communities Alliance testified that the need for Just Cause has grown in recent years and it is uniquely positioned to address the state’s continuing housing crisis, especially as other states have similar policies in place, proving the concept can find success.

With its passage through the Housing Committee today, the bill next heads to the Senate floor for further consideration.

Sen. Honig Leads Veterans’ Committee in Advancing Troops-to-Trades Initiative, Tax Relief for Veterans’ Organizations

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Sen. Honig Leads Veterans’ Committee in Advancing Troops-to-Trades Initiative, Tax Relief for Veterans’ Organizations

Senator Paul Honig, D-Harwinton, Senate Chair of the Veterans’ and Military Affairs Committee, today led the committee in advancing two bills to support Connecticut’s veterans and military community: one to strengthen pathways from military service into the trades and skilled workforce, and one to extend sales tax exemptions to veterans’ organizations.

H.B. 5409 — Troops-to-Trades

The bill directs the Labor Department to consolidate and expand a central online resource connecting veterans and transitioning servicemembers with job training, career information, and veteran-friendly employers. It includes a new $2,500 tax credit, administered by the Department of Economic and Community Development, for businesses that hire veterans into new full-time positions.

“Free college tuition is one of the National Guard’s most important recruitment tools, but many servicemembers leave the military with valuable trade skills they’re ready to build on,” Senator Honig said. “The opportunities are there, and they lead to real, high-paying careers, but the pathways aren’t always visible or easy to navigate. This bill makes sure veterans can find the resources they need, and gives employers even more incentive to hire them.”

The bill drew broad support at public hearing from Connecticut’s building trades unions and manufacturers, who noted strong demand for veteran hires across the state’s skilled industries.

H.B. 5292 — Sales Tax Exemption for Veterans’ Organizations

The bill extends Connecticut’s existing sales and use tax exemption to military and veterans-related organizations recognized under Section 501(c)(19) of the Internal Revenue Code.

“Veterans’ organizations do essential work in every community across our state. Every dollar they spend on sales taxes is a dollar that could go toward supporting the servicemembers and families they serve,” Senator Honig said. “This bill makes sure those resources go where they’re needed most, and I’m grateful the committee was able to advance it to the full legislature.”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Hugh McQuaid | hugh.mcquaid@cga.ct.gov |

DERBY DELEGATION WELCOMES STATE FUNDING FOR FOUNTAIN LAKE PLANNING

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DERBY DELEGATION WELCOMES STATE FUNDING FOR FOUNTAIN LAKE PLANNING

DERBY – Derby’s Democratic legislative delegation today welcomed a $250,000 Community Investment Fund state grant that will help plan for the development of the 30-acre Fountain Lake Industrial Park, which, when fully developed, could see as many as a dozen industrial lots and an expansion of Derby’s municipal tax base.

The grant – approved today – will be used to conduct site surveys, environmental assessments, draw conceptual plans for roads and utilities, and conduct a marketing and economic impact study. Derby’s legislative delegation wrote a letter on December 2, 2025 supporting the town’s application.

“It’s huge,” Mayor Joseph DiMartino said of the state grant, which Derby applied for in December. “Right now it’s just an empty, virgin lot. This grant will allow us to begin opening up manufacturing in Derby. We can work in partnership with Ansonia, and this could eventually be a job funnel for Derby High School students to get internships and move into full-time jobs.”

“Derby has been looking to develop this site and expand its tax base for some time, but there’s always a hump to get over, and that’s finding the money to do some preliminary site work and studies. Fortunately, the state came through today with this CIF grant,” said Senator Jorge Cabrera (D-Hamden). “I’m really looking forward to watching Fountain Lake grow and develop, and I expect the state will be a partner in that future development as well.”

“This funding represents a meaningful step forward toward the continued revitalization of Derby,” said Representative Mary Welander (D – Derby, Hamden, Orange, Woodbridge). “Developing a comprehensive plan for Fountain Lake Industrial Park will help position the site for future investment, job creation, and economic growth. I am grateful to everyone at the state and local level who worked together to make this investment a reality.”

“This funding is a pivotal investment in Derby’s economic growth,” said Representative Kara Rochelle (D-Derby, Ansonia). “By investing in the planning and infrastructure needed to support the industrial development of this site, we are opening opportunities for economic development and job growth in Derby. Development of this site will also bring grand list growth, which can help stabilize or lower taxes. I am grateful for the strong teamwork between the state and local level to deliver this funding and invest in Derby’s future.”

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SENS. LOONEY & CABRERA WELCOME $1.75 MILLION IN STATE AID FOR HAMDEN

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SENS. LOONEY & CABRERA WELCOME
$1.75 MILLION IN STATE AID FOR HAMDEN

HAMDEN – Senate President Martin M. Looney (D-New Haven) and Senator Jorge Cabrera (D-Hamden) today welcomed the approval of $1.75 million in state grants to help build a new Fire Station 2 in southern Hamden and for the expansion of The Children’s Center of Hamden.

The board of the Community Investment Fund 2030 approved the funding today in Hartford. The approved projects will now be placed on the next State Bond Commission agenda.

“The Community Investment Fund specializes in transformative economic development grants, and both of the Hamden projects approved today are certain to improve the economic and social vitality of the town,” Sen. Looney said. “I’m especially pleased to see that Fire Station 2 in Hamden is going to be rebuilt. The existing structure is far too antiquated to provide the level of modern fire protection that residents have come to expect.”

“Once again, State of Connecticut funding is making a real difference when it comes to economic and community development in cities and towns all across the state. Today’s CIF grants are the seeds that create the growth and modernization that Hamden needs and that its citizens deserve,” Sen. Cabrera said. “A new fire station not only protects the public, but it will protect the firefighters who serve Hamden. Expanding the Children’s Center helps all of Hamden and will improve the lives of some of the most vulnerable children and families in our city.”

The CIF Board today approved $1.5 million toward the estimated $7.5 million cost to build a new 15,410-square-foot Fire Station 2 to serve the residents of southern Hamden. The existing Fire Station 2 was built in 1912 and has exceeded its service life and can no longer support modern fire operations or firefighter health and safety requirements. The new facility will be constructed on a town-owned 3.4-acre parcel situated at the southeast corner of Putnam Avenue and Gallagher Road and feature four drive-through apparatus bays, modern decontamination, gear storage facilities, living quarters with appropriate privacy, wellness spaces, administrative offices, and a multi-purpose space featuring a Community Hub. Groundbreaking could take place in September 2026, with substantial completion by January 2028.

The CIF Board also approved a $250,000 planning grant for The Children’s Center of Hamden to evaluate and improve its aging seven-building campus to expand access to behavioral health, substance use, and related services. Planning activities include feasibility studies, campus improvement assessments, and community engagement through surveys and focus groups. The Center, founded in 1833, is a nonprofit providing behavioral health, educational, and supportive services for vulnerable children and families, serving about 65 Hamden families annually.

Sen. Gadkar-Wilcox Welcomes $5.4 In State Funding for Bridgeport

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Sen. Gadkar-Wilcox Welcomes $5.4 In State Funding for Bridgeport

BRIDGEPORT — Today, State Senator Sujata Gadkar-Wilcox celebrated the approval of over $5.4 million in Community Investment Fund (CIF) grants for two transformative Bridgeport projects: the restoration of Cortright Hall at the University of Bridgeport and the renovation of Optimus Health Care’s pediatric, OB/GYN, and dental clinic on East Main Street.

The CIF Board approved $3,200,000 for the University of Bridgeport to restore Cortright Hall, a historic building constructed in 1890 located within the Marina Park Historic District. The project will modernize building systems, improve accessibility and energy efficiency, and support the university’s long-term capacity to serve Bridgeport students and the broader community. The renovation is expected to create approximately 10 local construction jobs and support an increase in student enrollment in the years ahead.

The Board also approved $2,454,360 for Optimus Health Care, Inc., a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) that serves approximately 42,000 patients annually, the majority of whom are low-income, Medicaid-enrolled, or uninsured. Funding will complete first-floor renovations at the East Main Street clinic, expand the facility’s OB/GYN capacity by onboarding a full OB-GYN clinical team, and will expand pediatric and dental services as well. Upon completion, Optimus projects it will be able to serve an estimated 1,500 additional women annually through comprehensive OB/GYN care, along with hundreds of new pediatric and dental patients each year.

The funding must next be approved by the State Bond Commission before it is allocated to each organization.

“Bridgeport families deserve access to world-class healthcare and a thriving university at the heart of our community, and today’s CIF approval helps make both of those goals a reality,” said Sen. Gadkar-Wilcox. “For too many women and families in Bridgeport, access to quality OB/GYN, pediatric, and dental care is out of reach. This investment in Optimus Health Care will meaningfully expand that access. Restoring Cortright Hall at UB is an investment in the next generation of students, many of them first-generation college students from right here in Bridgeport, who deserve a state-of-the-art campus to grow and learn in. I am grateful to Governor Lamont, Senate Leadership, and the CIF Board for their continued commitment to Bridgeport.”

The Community Investment Fund 2030 is a state program administered by the Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) designed to direct capital investment to historically underserved communities across Connecticut.

Senator Rahman Applauds CIF Vote to Fund Planning for The CCGC Landing in Manchester

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Senator MD Rahman Applauds CIF Vote to Fund Planning for The CCGC Landing in Manchester

Senator MD Rahman, D-Manchester, today celebrated a vote by the Community Investment Fund (CIF) Board to recommend $250,000 in state funding for the Community Child Guidance Clinic in Manchester to support planning for The CCGC Landing, a proposed community center envisioned as a hub for recreation, wellness, learning, and community gathering.

The grant will fund the planning process for the future facility. The CIF vote represents a key step in the process of securing final approval of the funding by the State Bond Commission, which must meet within the next 60 days to take up the board’s recommendations.

“The Community Child Guidance Clinic has served children and families in our community for almost 70 years, and The CCGC Landing will build on that work by giving residents a place to come together and thrive,” Senator Rahman said. “I believe our state has an obligation to invest in planning for community resources like this. I thank the CIF Board for this vote, and I am excited to see the State Bond Commission finalize the funding.”

The Community Investment Fund was established by the Connecticut General Assembly to direct state investment toward historically underserved communities. CIF grants are recommended by a board of directors and must receive final approval from the State Bond Commission.

Senator Gaston Secures Over $2.4 Million in State Funding for Optimus Health Care Renovations in Bridgeport

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Senator Gaston Secures over $2.4 Million in State Funding for Optimus Health Care Renovations in Bridgeport

Today, state Senator Herron Keyon Gaston (D-Bridgeport), as a new member of the Community Investment Fund (CIF), approved passage of funding and welcomed a total of over $2.4 million in state funding that will be released to Bridgeport.

Upon the State Bond Commission’s final approval of the funds’ release, Bridgeport will receive $2,454,360 for the renovation of the OB/GYN department, the pediatric department on the 1st floor and the dental department at Optimus Health Care, Inc.

“For too long, underserved communities like Bridgeport have faced barriers to accessing the health care services they need,” said Sen. Gaston. “This $2.4 million investment is a meaningful step toward changing that. By upgrading the OB/GYN, pediatric, and dental departments at Optimus Health Care, we are directly investing in the health and well-being of our most vulnerable residents including our children, our mothers, and our families.”

The project at Optimus Health Care, Inc. will enable the completion of renovations at its clinic. It will include first-floor interior renovations and facility upgrades that will increase safety, accessibility, and long-term building sustainability. These enhancements will address existing deficiencies, modernize clinical layouts, and create a physical environment that supports coordinated, team-based care. This project will support improved health outcomes, expand service availability, and reduce persistent health disparities.

Senator Gaston wrote a letter of support for this project.

The CIF fosters economic development in historically underserved communities across the state.