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The State Bond Commission has invested nearly $7.7 million in funding to the city of New Haven. These investments represent a major commitment to New Haven’s future and to the people who call our city home. From expanding access to high-quality childcare and strengthening community centers, parks, schools, and recreational facilities, these funds will help create opportunities for residents of all ages.
I am especially proud to see support for organizations and projects that enhance educational outcomes, promote healthy communities, and drive neighborhood revitalization. I want to thank Governor Lamont and our state partners for recognizing the importance of investing in New Haven’s families, students, and community institutions. Together, these projects will make a lasting difference and help ensure our city continues to thrive for generations to come.
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Below is a breakdown of how the funding will be invested.
Through the Community Investment Fund 2030:
- Albertus Magnus College will receive $500,000 to modernize infrastructure at the Cosgrove Marcus Messer Athletic Center, including its recreation and swimming facility
- The City of New Haven will receive $250,000 for a planning grant to support revitalization of Ball Island as part of the Mill River Municipal Development Plan
- Friends Center for Children, Inc. will receive $2,000,000 for a Phase II planning grant to expand childcare capacity and community assets at its Flint Street campus
- Leadership, Education, and Athletics in Partnership, Inc. (LEAP) will receive $1,300,000 for abatement and renovation of the Roslyn M. Meyer Community Center on Jefferson Street
- Leeway, Inc. will receive $250,000 for a planning grant to develop an integrated residential care continuum option in New Haven
Through the Office of Policy and Management Urban Development Program:
- Friends Center for Children, Inc. will receive $1,500,000 for facility expansion and equipment
- The City of New Haven will receive $243,000 for lighting and power access improvements at Edgewood Park
- The City of New Haven will receive $1,000,000 for improvements to East Shore Park, including youth soccer facilities
Through the Department of Administrative Services Charter School Capital Program:
- Amistad Academy Middle School will receive $672,079 for student bathroom renovation, alarm system upgrades, and PA system improvements
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Governor Lamont has announced a plan to allocate $8.5 million from Connecticut’s Federal Cuts Response Fund to provide $300 grocery assistance cards to approximately 25,000 Connecticut residents who are expected to lose their federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits due to recent federal rule changes.
Under the proposal, eligible individuals who have lost SNAP eligibility as a result of new federal work requirements will receive a one-time grocery assistance card that can be used to purchase food at participating grocery stores. In addition, applicants will be connected with resources and support services to help them regain SNAP eligibility whenever possible.
The initiative is designed to provide immediate relief to residents facing food insecurity while helping families navigate changes to federal benefit programs. As the cost of groceries continues to place pressure on household budgets, this assistance will help ensure that vulnerable residents can continue to access nutritious food and meet their basic needs.
Connecticut’s Federal Cuts Response Fund was established in late 2025 to help the state respond quickly and effectively to federal policy changes and funding reductions that impact residents. This proposal marks the fourth plan submitted by Governor Lamont to legislative leaders for the use of the fund since its creation, demonstrating Connecticut’s ongoing commitment to supporting residents during times of economic uncertainty and transition.
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| Landmark Legislation for AI Protections |
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Governor Lamont has signed Public Act 26-15, landmark legislation that strengthens protections for Connecticut residents against emerging AI-related harms, addresses the growing impact of social media addiction among youth, and positions Connecticut as a national leader in the responsible development and use of artificial intelligence.
In addition to these important consumer protections, the law invests in workforce development initiatives designed to equip Connecticut workers with the advanced skills and technology training needed to compete for high-quality jobs in today's rapidly evolving digital economy.
This forward-looking legislation reflects Connecticut's commitment to fostering innovation while ensuring that emerging technologies are developed and deployed responsibly, safeguarding residents and creating new opportunities for workers and businesses alike.
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| Early Childhood Education Endowment Receives Additional Funding |
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Connecticut’s Early Childhood Education Endowment has received an additional investment of approximately $320 million, further strengthening the state's commitment to affordable, high-quality early childhood education.
Established in 2025 through Public Act 25-93, the endowment serves as a permanent funding source dedicated to strengthening Connecticut’s early childhood education system. This new investment, combined with last year’s initial $300 million commitment, positions Connecticut as a national leader in creating sustainable, long-term solutions that support children, families, educators, and providers.
Beginning in July 2027, eligible families are expected to benefit from no-cost or reduced-cost early childhood education opportunities funded through the endowment. Families enrolled in state-funded child care spaces through the Early Start CT program who earn up to $100,000 annually will be eligible for child care at no cost. For families with incomes above that threshold, out-of-pocket child care expenses will be capped at no more than 7% of household income.
This historic investment reflects Connecticut’s commitment to ensuring that every child has access to high-quality early learning opportunities while providing meaningful financial relief for working families and strengthening the early childhood workforce for generations to come.
Click here for more information on the endowment.
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More than 97,000 Connecticut residents can expect to receive letters in the mail beginning this week notifying them that some or all of their medical debt has been eliminated.
Medical debt places a significant financial burden on families in communities across Connecticut. This marks the fourth round of the state's medical debt relief initiative, which provides meaningful assistance to qualifying residents who are struggling to pay outstanding medical bills. Since the program launched in 2024, more than 252,000 Connecticut residents have had over $513 million in medical debt cancelled, helping families regain financial stability and peace of mind.
Residents whose medical debt has been forgiven will receive a letter in an Undue Medical Debt-branded envelope featuring the Connecticut state seal (see image below). These notifications are legitimate and do not require any action on the recipient's part.
Governor Lamont will continue partnering with Undue Medical Debt to provide additional relief throughout this year. To support this effort, the Governor and the Connecticut General Assembly approved legislation making $6.5 million in federal ARPA funding available for the initiative through 2026.
This program continues to demonstrate Connecticut's commitment to easing financial hardship for residents and ensuring that unexpected medical expenses do not become a long-term obstacle to economic security.
Click here to read the full release from the governor's office.
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The 61st Annual Freddy Fixer Parade is Sunday, June 7 from 1:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and is one of the oldest Black American parades in the Northeast that stands as a vibrant celebration of heritage, community pride, unity, and the ongoing beautification of our neighborhoods.
Each year, we honor the vision and legacy of the parade’s founders, Dr. Frederick F. Smith, Edna Carnegie-Baker, and Dr. Charles Twyman, whose commitment to community service and civic engagement laid the foundation for this cherished tradition. The parade serves as a powerful reminder of the rich history, cultural contributions, and enduring spirit that continue to shape and strengthen our community.
For generations, the parade has served as a cornerstone of New Haven’s cultural landscape, reflecting the strength, resilience, and unity of our community. Through decades of service, cultural celebration, and neighborhood revitalization, it has honored our shared history while inspiring continued efforts to build stronger neighborhoods, foster meaningful connections, and preserve the traditions that enrich our community.
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| June 6 & 7: CT Trails Day |
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Celebrate Connecticut Trails Day on Saturday, June 6, and Sunday, June 7! The Connecticut Forest & Park Association is coordinating more than 200 hikes and walks across the state, offering a wonderful opportunity to explore Connecticut’s natural beauty and enjoy the outdoors.
Now in its 33rd year, this beloved tradition brings together thousands of participants to experience Connecticut’s incredible trail network and scenic landscapes. This year’s theme, Explore Where You Live, encourages residents to discover the trails, parks, and open spaces in their own communities.
Events are designed for all ages, abilities, and experience levels. Whether you’re looking for a challenging outdoor adventure or a relaxing, family-friendly walk, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
To find a hike or walk that interests you anywhere in Connecticut, visit www.trailsday.org.
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Spring Farm River Cleanup
On Saturday, June 6 from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. join Friends of the Farm River in cleaning up trash and debris that accumulated along the river during the winter months. Help make the Farm River healthier and cleaner.
Kayak or Boat: Please bring your own, join in one of Farm River's, contact farmriverfriends@gmail.com to see if a boat slot is available. Refreshments/snacks afterwards.
Meet by land or by sea at 145 Meadow St, East Haven, CT
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Movies in the Plaza is back and brings you free Wednesday night movie screenings May through October in downtown New Haven’s Pitkin Plaza (145 Orange Street).
Grab your lawn chairs, picnic blankets, and some takeout from a local spot, and spend an evening under the stars enjoying blockbusters, nostalgic blasts from the past, cult favorites, family films, and more.
This event is free and open to the public, there is free popcorn and snacks, and it is a (leashed) pet-friendly event.
The next movie showing is The Birdcage on June 10 at 8:00 p.m.
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Early Bird registration is now open for Paddle for the Sound which will be taking place from Friday, July 31 to Sunday, August 9.
The 11th annual Paddle for the Sound invites you to take to the water on your own terms. Over a 10-day period, paddle a kayak, SUP, or canoe wherever you are, whenever it works for you, and turn your time on the water into something bigger. This friendly challenge turns time on the water into real impact, raising funds to protect clean water and ensure everyone in our region has the opportunity to experience and enjoy this incredible estuary.
Early bird pricing: Adults $30, Youth (Under 14) $20
Regular pricing: Adults $40, Youth (Under 14) $30
Click here for more information and to register.
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