Candidates for state office took part in a candidate information session Sept. 6 at the United Way and the Beth-El Center in Milford titled, “From Entry to Exit: How the Greater New Haven Coordinated Access Network is Ending Homelessness.”
State Comptroller Kevin Lembo and state Reps. Pam Staneski and Charles Ferraro attended, as well as state representative candidates Cindy Wolf Boynton, Kathleen Kennedy and Connie Jagodzinski.
This nonpartisan information session gave candidates the opportunity to meet with homeless services providers from the Greater New Haven Coordinated Access Network and to learn how investments in homeless services and housing solutions are ending homelessness and saving lives.
“We are so proud to be able to highlight the successful work of the Greater New Haven Coordinated Access Network in ending homelessness across the greater New Haven region,” said Beth-El Executive Director Jennifer Paradis. “The Beth-El Center is a proud partner and leader in these efforts and by the participation in today’s informational session and Beth-El Center tour, it is clear that we are all committed to ensuring we do our best to serve the individuals and families experiencing homelessness in our community.”
The event began with information sessions at the United Way of Milford. Candidates then took a tour of the Beth-El Center and learned about their Emergency Shelter program. They also visited Liberty Pointe, a permanent supportive housing program that is case managed by the Beth-El Center.
Other providers of the Greater New Haven Coordinated Access Network that took part in the session included Jim Farrales of Continuum of Care, Margaret LeFever of the United Way of Greater New Haven, Sarah Fox of the Connecticut Coalition to End Homelessness, Sean Ghio of the Partnership for Strong Communities, Camille Roach of Columbus House, LeAnne Reynolds and Caitlin Rose of New Reach, Elaine Matt of BHCare, Susan Agamy of Spooner House and Marcella Tratnyek of Yale New Haven Hospital.
Candidates for state offices and Greater New Haven Coordinated Access Network providers gather on Sept. 6 to discuss homeless services and housing solutions for the region. Photo courtesy of the Beth-El Center.