Toni Nathaniel Harp

Harp and Looney Announce State Assistance for Boys and Girls Club Improvements

NEW HAVEN—Senate Majority Leader Martin M. Looney (D-New Haven) and Senator Toni N. Harp (D-New Haven) today hailed the State Bond Commissions approval of state funding for improvements at New Haven’s Boys and Girls Club on Columbus Avenue.

New Haven’s Boys and Girls Club has been positively impacting local young people for more than 140 years and is the second oldest Club in the nation. This state grant will underwrite replacement of the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system (HVAC) as well as gymnasium renovations and exterior improvements.

“More than one thousand young people in New Haven depend upon this facility for educational and recreational opportunities and most of these clients are from economically vulnerable families in New Haven—most of them from the city’s Hill neighborhood,” Senator Harp said. “As schools close for the next couple months and we move into the heart of summer this club will become the focal point for these young people and these productive activities all the more.”

“The Boys and Girls Club of New Haven is a vital resource for families and children throughout the city of New Haven” said Senator Looney. “The improvements to the building will ensure that the Boys and Girls Club can continue to provide our young people with a safe and structured environment where they can learn, grow and play.

“There is a great need in our city for constructive, instructive outlets so young people we know and love can spend their discretionary time improving themselves—learning skills that aren’t necessarily taught in school,” Senator Harp said. “The Boys & Girls Club of New Haven has been a steadfast provider of these opportunities, helping young families learn about nurturing their children and helping other young people acquire essential life skills like health, wellness, and nutrition information.”

The improvements will be funded by a grant totaling $231,200 will be administered by the state Department of Children and Families.