SENS. HARTLEY & CABRERA WELCOME $3 MILLION STATE INVESTMENT IN NAUGATUCK YMCA CHILDCARE CENTER
NAUGATUCK – State Senators Joan Hartley (D-Waterbury) and Jorge Cabrera (D-Hamden) today welcomed the news that the State of Connecticut is investing $3 million to expand the Naugatuck YMCA’s childcare facility by renovating the adjacent vacant Saint Frances Parochial School.
The plans include a licensed birth to five childcare center, school and teen programming, a teenage recreational center, and family resources. Located less than a half mile from the newly planned rail line platform and 200 mixed-rate apartments, the expansion will help meet childcare needs in the area.
Just last year, Sen. Hartley welcomed a different $1 million state investment in the Naugatuck YMCA for upgrades including roof repairs.
“Every investment in childcare is an investment in economic development. With the expansion of the Naugatuck Y’s childcare facility, we will enable more parents to return to the workplace knowing they have nearby quality, affordable and accessible childcare,” Sen. Hartley said. “Having recently secured a state bonding allocation for the Naugatuck Y, and now with the CCC grant, I am thrilled to see this program come to fruition.”
“When we created this program two years ago, I knew good things were going to happen for the people of Connecticut. Now we’ve got childcare expansion and a teen rec center at a time in Naugatuck when the economy is booming, more folks are working full-time and new housing is being built,” said Sen. Cabrera, who represents the southern half of Naugatuck. “This is the right investment at the right time, and I couldn’t be happier that Naugatuck was awarded this state grant.”
Naugatuck YMCA CEO Mark LaFortune said over the past two years, his organization has received a total of $5.9 million in state and federal grants, and that this latest grant will have a positive impact on Naugatuck.
“We’re going to create a state-of-the-art facility for local families, from birth to adult,” LaFortune said. “And one of the things we learned throughout the pandemic is that our teens need more services and more places to go. This grant will help create that for teens and serve them in a supervised environment.”
Governor Ned Lamont recently announced that the state is awarding a total of $23 million to eight towns and cities – including Naugatuck – under the third round of his administration’s recently launched Connecticut Communities Challenge Grant program. Administered by the state Department of Economic and Community Development, the program was created in 2021 with the purpose of funding a wide range of revitalization projects that will spur the growth of new jobs. This third round of grants leverages approximately $105 million in non-state dollars.
Senator Moore Welcomes $406,976.40 In Local School Mental Health Specialist Support In District In Next Three Years
Senator Moore Welcomes $406,976.40 In Local School Mental Health Specialist Support In District In Next Three Years
Today, State Senator Marilyn Moore (D-Bridgeport) welcomed the state’s announcement that $406,976.40 in state support will be released to schools in the 22nd Senate District to support the hiring and retention of school mental health specialists for the 2024, 2025 and 2026 school years. These grants were spurred by the passage of key legislation passed in 2022 by Senate Democrats, supporting youth mental health amid increasing reports of challenges students face today.
“Children deserve to have accessible mental health care and a place and/or person they feel comfortable going to,” said Sen. Moore. “Increasing mental health specialists in our schools is a great place to start. Children everywhere should have the resources available should they need to access it. Mental health is so important as it creates the foundation for one’s well-being.”
“Every child deserves essential support for behavioral health services, and through the release of these grants we are able to assist more school districts in hiring mental health workers,” Governor Lamont said. “Making these resources available in schools is a way we can easily and directly connect children and teens with the support they require.”
The following school systems will receive mental health support funds for the 2024 through 2026 school years, with the values representing the total amounts provided in that time:
Great Oaks Charter School, $244,976.40; Bridge Academy, $162,000.
Senator Maroney Welcomes $433,933.20 In Local School Mental Health Specialist Support In District In Next Three Years
Senator Maroney Welcomes $433,933.20 In Local School Mental Health Specialist Support In District In Next Three Years
Today, State Senator James Maroney (D-Milford) welcomed the state’s announcement that $433,933.20 in state support will be released to schools in the 14th Senate District to support the hiring and retention of school mental health specialists for the 2024, 2025 and 2026 school years. These grants were spurred by the passage of key legislation passed in 2022 by Senate Democrats, supporting youth mental health amid increasing reports of challenges students face today.
“Our local schools are dealing with the fallout of the increases in anxiety and depression among children ever since the pandemic,” said Sen. Maroney. “The addition of necessary resources allows for the continued support of students in need. I am grateful these funds will be used to support mental health specialists in schools.”
“Every child deserves essential support for behavioral health services, and through the release of these grants we are able to assist more school districts in hiring mental health workers,” Governor Lamont said. “Making these resources available in schools is a way we can easily and directly connect children and teens with the support they require.”
The following school systems will receive mental health support funds for the 2024 through 2026 school years, with the values representing the total amounts provided in that time:
Orange, $249,763.50; Region 5, $184,169.70.
STATE SEN. MATT LESSER VOTES TO APPROVE PLAN FOR $4 MILLION FOR AFFORDABLE HOUSING IN ROCKY HILL, WETHERSFIELD
STATE SEN. MATT LESSER VOTES TO APPROVE PLAN FOR $4 MILLION FOR AFFORDABLE HOUSING IN ROCKY HILL, WETHERSFIELD
HARTFORD, CT – Today, State Senator Matt Lesser voted to approve the Small Cities Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Allocation Plan which includes $2 million in federal funding to renovate the Rocky Hill Housing Authority, as well as $2 million to renovate the Harvey Fuller Senior Housing in Wethersfield.
The Rocky Hill Housing Authority consists of 40 units built in the 1970s. These funds, if given final approval by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), will allow the Housing Authority to replace the original 1970s windows in all 40 units, install new flooring in 35 units, replace the roofs of 7 buildings, bring ADA units up to code, create 9 new ADA parking spaces and 2 Electric Vehicle charging ports, as well as other necessary plumbing and electrical updates.
“These funds are critical to offering folks safe, clean and affordable housing options,” said Sen. Lesser. “I’m eager to see these federal funds receive their final approval so we can provide necessary updates to these housing developments that are home to some of our most vulnerable residents.” Senator Lesser recently visited the Rocky Hill Housing Authority to meet with residents and staff, where he heard about the need for these upgrades.
“I’m excited to see this money finally come to fruition after a long and arduous grant writing process led by Executive Director Susan Moore and her entire housing authority team. Our investment in these homes will provide longevity in affordable housing stock that has a five year waiting list for entry. This is the start of what I hope will be a continued investment into more of this type of housing so that we can expand access and reduce wait times,” said Rep. Kerry Wood.
“On behalf of the Chairperson, the Board of commissioners and the Executive Director, we would like to express our sincerest gratitude to everyone who assisted us in obtaining the CDBG funds. The 2 million dollars will be utilized for necessary ADA accessibility modifications in the apartments as well as in the community and building structure renovations. Sustainability and safety is our first and foremost priority for our older adult and disabled population who reside at RHHA.” said Susan Moores Carotenuti, Executive Director of the Rocky Hill Housing Authority.
“I would like to thank Senator Matt Lesser, Representative Wood, The Board of Commissioners and Executive Director Susan Carotenuti for all their hard work in obtaining the rehabilitation grant for the 36 Willow Road Project” said Ken Goldberg, Chair of the Rocky Hill Housing Authority.
The Small Cities CDBG Program’s goal is to develop viable communities by providing decent housing, a suitable living environment, and by expanding economic opportunities for persons of low and moderate-income. The CDBG Program is administered by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and is under the cognizance of the Connecticut Department of Housing (DOH). The funds will need approval from HUD within 45 days of submission of the state plan.
The plan was approved Thursday by a vote of the Housing, Commerce, and Appropriations Committees. Lesser serves as a member of Appropriations and as Vice Chair of Housing.
Senator McCrory Welcomes $724,739.48 In Local School Mental Health Specialist Support In District In Next Three Years
Senator McCrory Welcomes $724,739.48 In Local School Mental Health Specialist Support In District In Next Three Years
Today, State Senator Doug McCrory (D-Hartford) welcomed the state’s announcement that $724,739.48 in state support will be released to schools in the 2nd Senate District to support the hiring and retention of school mental health specialists for the 2024, 2025 and 2026 school years. These grants were spurred by the passage of key legislation passed in 2022 by Senate Democrats, supporting youth mental health amid increasing reports of challenges students face today.
“Encouraging our kids to talk about their mental health will help them on the road to recovery,” said Sen. McCrory. “Increasing access to mental health specialists in schools can help alleviate the lack of resources a child may need. This funding makes the opportunity possible for every child to receive care they may need while at school.”
“Every child deserves essential support for behavioral health services, and through the release of these grants we are able to assist more school districts in hiring mental health workers,” Governor Lamont said. “Making these resources available in schools is a way we can easily and directly connect children and teens with the support they require.”
The following school systems will receive mental health support funds for the 2024 through 2026 school years, with the values representing the total amounts provided in that time:
Bloomfield, $238,739.48; Jumoke Academy, $324,000; Windsor Locks, $162,000.
SENATOR COHEN WELCOMES OVER $460,000 IN SCHOOL MENTAL HEALTH SPECIALIST SUPPORT FOR LOCAL SCHOOL SYSTEMS
SENATOR COHEN WELCOMES OVER $460,000 IN SCHOOL MENTAL HEALTH SPECIALIST SUPPORT FOR LOCAL SCHOOL SYSTEMS
State Senator Christine Cohen (D-Guilford) welcomes the state’s announcement that over $460,000 in state support will be released to Regional School District 13 and the Madison School District to support the hiring and retention of school mental health specialists for the 2024, 2025 and 2026 school years. These grants were spurred by the passage of key legislation passed in 2022 by Senate Democrats, supporting youth mental health amid increasing reports of challenges students face today.
“Mental health support is critical to student success in and out of the classroom, and the past few years have been incredibly tough on our students and their families,” said Sen. Cohen. “These funds will ensure students have access to the mental health care they need and will continue the important work of normalizing seeking help when you need it.”
“Every child deserves essential support for behavioral health services, and through the release of these grants we are able to assist more school districts in hiring mental health workers,” Governor Ned Lamont said. “Making these resources available in schools is a way we can easily and directly connect children and teens with the support they require.”
The following school systems will receive mental health support funds for the 2024 through 2026 school years:
Regional School District 13: $298,350; Madison School District: $162,000.
Senator Hochadel Welcomes $162,000 In Local School Mental Health Specialist Support In District In Next Three Years
Senator Hochadel Supports State Bonding Approved for Cheshire Park
Today, State Senator Jan Hochadel (D-Meriden) welcomed the state’s announcement that $162,000 in state support will be released to schools in the 13th Senate District to support the hiring and retention of school mental health specialists for the 2024, 2025 and 2026 school years. These grants were spurred by the passage of key legislation passed in 2022 by Senate Democrats, supporting youth mental health amid increasing reports of challenges students face today.
“Mental health is the foundation of our emotions, thinking communication, resilience, hope and self-esteem,” said Sen. Hochadel. “It begins when you are a child. Creating a safe space for our children will allow them to have better relationships with themselves and others. I am thankful this funding will allow our school districts to provide more resources to students in need.”
“Every child deserves essential support for behavioral health services, and through the release of these grants we are able to assist more school districts in hiring mental health workers,” Governor Lamont said. “Making these resources available in schools is a way we can easily and directly connect children and teens with the support they require.”
The following school systems will receive mental health support funds for the 2024 through 2026 school years, with the values representing the total amounts provided in that time:
Cheshire, $162,000
Senator Gaston Welcomes $406,976.40 In Local School Mental Health Specialist Support In District In Next Three Years
Senator Gaston Welcomes $406,976.40 In Local School Mental Health Specialist Support In District In Next Three Years
Today, State Senator Herron Keyon Gaston (D-Bridgeport) welcomed the state’s announcement that $406,976.40 in state support will be released to schools in the 23rd Senate District to support the hiring and retention of school mental health specialists for the 2024, 2025 and 2026 school years. These grants were spurred by the passage of key legislation passed in 2022 by Senate Democrats, supporting youth mental health amid increasing reports of challenges students face today.
“Students undergo serious stress every day and we need to be there to guide them with the resources needed and make sure help is available,” said Sen. Gaston. “I am thankful this funding will allow children to have easier access to mental health resources in their schools.”
“Every child deserves essential support for behavioral health services, and through the release of these grants we are able to assist more school districts in hiring mental health workers,” Governor Lamont said. “Making these resources available in schools is a way we can easily and directly connect children and teens with the support they require.”
The following school systems will receive mental health support funds for the 2024 through 2026 school years, with the values representing the total amounts provided in that time:
Great Oaks Charter School, $244,976.40; Bridge Academy, $162,000.
STATE SENATOR MARTHA MARX RELEASES STATEMENT ON PASSING OF FORMER STATE SENATOR MELODIE PETERS
STATE SENATOR MARTHA MARX RELEASES STATEMENT ON PASSING OF FORMER STATE SENATOR MELODIE PETERS
Today, State Senator Martha Marx (D-New London) released the following statement following the death of former State Senator Melodie Peters. Peters, a former nurse and formerly of Waterford, represented the 20th Senate District for six terms and also served as Vice President of the American Federations of Connecticut and President of the American Federation of Teachers.
“Melodie Peters was a champion of workers’ rights in Connecticut, and not only served as my State Senator but as my union president,” said Sen. Marx. “I used to watch her and say ‘nurses can do anything.’ In her decades of work, she always fought for labor and workers, always seeking a better tomorrow. I am grateful for her service to our great state and join many others in mourning her loss.”
SENATORS LOONEY, ANWAR GRATEFUL AS STATE INVESTS IN FREE SCHOOL MEALS, BENEFITTING STUDENT HEALTH AND LEARNING
SENATORS LOONEY, ANWAR GRATEFUL AS STATE INVESTS IN FREE SCHOOL MEALS, BENEFITTING STUDENT HEALTH AND LEARNING
Today, Senate President Martin M. Looney (D-New Haven) and Senator Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor) joined Connecticut leaders including Governor Ned Lamont and Education Commissioner Charlene M. Russell-Tucker as they announced the state’s expansion of free school meal programs for the 2023-24 school year. This new expansion will connect thousands of students with access to free, nutritious school breakfasts and lunches across the state, helping improve student health and learning, as studies show children who struggle with hunger experience more challenges in the educational system.
Sens. Looney and Anwar are especially encouraged by this announcement because they have advocated for free school meal expansion since the end of expanded federal support programs in late 2022. In December of 2022, Sen. Anwar joined advocated at the Capitol calling for expanded free lunch programs and connecting families in need with available aid programs; in February of 2023, he joined advocates in the Children’s Committee testifying in support of expanded school meal programs for all students. Both Senators were strong advocates of expanded school meals and introduced legislation supporting that goal; they are strongly encouraged by today’s expanded access to services.
“In the world of ‘Leave It To Beaver,’ the kids would come home from school and their mother would have snacks prepared for them if they were hungry. There was never the thought that they would go to school hungry, but the reality is that was not life for many people then and certainly isn’t now,” said Sen. Looney. We know many students struggle and are reliant on meals they get in school – they’re sometimes the most substantive meals children get in the day. They are a lifeline, not just a convenience. That’s why we also have to be concerned about summer programs when school is not in session. During that two and a half month gap, there is often a food desert in many communities. In order to make sure we are providing what we need to provide to sustain learning, I am proud of these investments. Speaker Ritter and I were very happy to work on this together and we’d like to thank the Governor for his work on this as well.”
“A hungry child cannot effectively learn,” said Sen. Anwar. “It’s with that knowledge that I am proud that our state is supporting more than 100,000 students this year by providing them with free meals. Nearly 180,000 students will be able to access free breakfasts, while more than 13,000 students will be eligible for free lunches through these new changes. Today, Connecticut reaches out to children in need and makes sure they are better taken care of. I am encouraged by these advances and will seek more ways for us to build on this success in years to come.”
“This investment ensures that each student begins their day with a nourishing meal, fostering learning and growth,” Governor Lamont said. “Additionally, removing the family portion of the cost of lunch for students eligible for reduced-price meals means more money in their pockets for other essential needs. By ensuring access to nutritious meals, we empower our students to excel academically and in all facets of life.”
Under the plan announced today, the Lamont administration will invest $16 million of American Rescue Plan Act funds to support school meals in multiple ways, including support for students at non-Community Eligibility Provision schools participating in the federal School Breakfast Program to receive no-cost breakfast meals, which will benefit an estimated 177,243 students in 114 school districts. Students eligible for reduced-price meals in non-CEP schools participating in the federal National School Lunch Program will be able to receive lunch at no cost, with approximately 128 districts and 13,197 children benefitting. This funding was allocated in the most recent state budget passed by legislators in June.
According to the Food Research and Action Center, school meals provide critical benefits to student health and well-being, especially for low-income students. Research has shown that free- or reduced-price school lunches can reduce food insecurity, obesity rates and poor health among children. Additionally, school meals provide more opportunities for students to effectively learn and grow; students experiencing hunger are more likely to experience behavioral, emotional or mental health issues as well as academic ones, and children experiencing hunger are more likely to repeat grades or receive special services.