On Saturday, July 9, Christian Community Action (CCA) held the ribbon cutting for New HOPE (Higher Opportunities, Purpose, and Expectations). This housing and “moving to work” program, located in Newhallville just south of the Hamden town line, is a cooperative venture with the Housing Authority of New Haven.
The beautifully renovated building with 18 apartments will provide housing for families who are homeless or at risk of homelessness, for up to 3 years. A number of other services are being provided, including a “Young Scientists” program for children in the neighborhood. Read more about New Hope at here.
The celebration event featured comments from local and state officials; from key people who made the project happen; and from longtime spiritual and community leaders Bishop Peter Rosazza, Rabbi Herbert Brockman, and Rev. Bonita Grubbs. (Rev. Grubbs is the Executive Director of CCA director who gave a virtual lecture at Divine Mercy in 2021). Most inspiring was to hear from two adult women whose lives were turned around by the support of CCA earlier in their lives.
Brian Stiltner and John J. Leary from Social Justice and Community Building (SJCB) Committee represented St. Paul VI Parish at the ribbon cutting; they are pictured here with Bishop Peter Rosazza. To get involved with the parish’s work to help people with housing and other needs, contact the SJCB.