Senator Gaston Welcomes Nearly $2.6 Million in State Grants for Bridgeport Nonprofits

Senator Herron Keyon Gaston, D-Bridgeport, celebrated the release of nearly $2.6 million in state funding this week to support capital improvement projects by Bridgeport-based nonprofits including renovations to a local boys and girls club and upgrades for community health care providers.

“By investing in the nonprofits that enhance the lives of our young people and support the health of our residents, we’re investing in Bridgeport,” Senator Gaston said. “These essential projects — from renovations to a boys and girls club to tech improvements supporting our seniors — represent strategic contributions to our community and I am grateful to Governor Lamont for releasing these funds.”

The grants announced this week include $1,587,243 for the Southwest Connecticut Agency on Aging for renovations and improvements to the Wakeman Boys & Girls Club and another $491,476 for a technology hub at the aging agency.

Other grants for Bridgeport nonprofits included $450,000 for Community Resources for Justice, a group that assists men and women leaving incarceration. This grant will help the organization with property acquisition.

Additionally, Optimus Health Care, a community health center that provides care regardless of a patient’s ability to pay, will receive $60,154 to enhance prenatal care through technology.

The governor’s office awarded the grants under the state Nonprofit Grant Program, an initiative that has provided more than $130 million in support for capital projects by Connecticut nonprofit groups since it was established in 2013.

“Connecticut’s nonprofit providers support residents in every town and are a vital part of our social services safety net,” Governor Lamont said. “Providing funding to make strategic investments helps these organizations deliver the services some of our most vulnerable residents depend upon. This grant funding will help all of the residents that these organizations support be able to utilize their personal strengths, talents, and passions.”