This spring, the Connecticut Parent Housing Table helped bring families, parent leaders, community organizations, and local officials together for two conversations focused on housing in Stamford.
On February 28, members of the Parent Housing Table participated in the 2nd Annual Stamford Housing Fair: Housing Help for Every Neighbor, Every Stage, Every Home, hosted in partnership with Stamford Cradle to Career and the City of Stamford. The fair connected residents with resources for renters, homeowners, landlords, and first-time homebuyers, including affordable housing information, utility assistance, financial education, and other community services.
The event also created opportunities for residents to connect directly with local organizations and leaders, including Mayor Caroline Simmons, representatives from the Mayor’s Office and Stamford Police Department, and staff from the office of U.S. Representative Jim Himes.
Many attendees also learned about the Parent Leadership Training Institute (PLTI) and were invited to continue the conversation at a Housing Community Café held April 30 at Fifth Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church in Stamford.
Facilitated by trained parent leaders and supported by NPLI representatives Janine McMahon and Patti Keckeisen, the Community Café brought together parents, residents, and community partners to talk about affordable housing challenges and explore solutions grounded in lived experience. Spanish-English interpretation and a virtual participation option helped make the conversation accessible to more residents.
Participants also learned about the City of Stamford’s Fair Rent Program and had the opportunity to ask questions and engage directly with local housing leaders.
Together, the Housing Fair and Community Café showed what can happen when families have opportunities not only to access resources, but also to share their experiences and ideas. Through the Connecticut Parent Housing Table, parent leaders continue to build relationships and create spaces where community perspectives can help inform conversations about affordable and equitable housing.
We’re grateful to the partners and parent leaders who helped make these events possible, including Stamford Cradle to Career, Fifth Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church, Strong Communities, SPEF, and the City of Stamford.
Connecticut residents interested in joining the Connecticut Parent Housing Table or learning more about this work can contact Janine McMahon at janine@parentswholead.org.
