New Haven Funding, Free Legal Consultations, and more

March 13, 2026

Dear Neighbor,

Happy Friday!

In this week's eblast, you can read about funding for New Haven, free consultations from the CT Bar Association, and more. You can click the links below to navigate between sections.

New Haven Receives Grant Funding
Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month
Upcoming Public Hearings
CT Bar Association Free Consultations
Civic Learning Week
National Agriculture Week: March 16-20

New Haven Receives Grant Funding

I'm thrilled to welcome $4.3 million in state funding through the Connecticut Community Investment Fund to support five important projects in New Haven. This funding will help municipalities and nonprofit organizations advance critical efforts in community development, housing, health services, and economic revitalization, strengthening neighborhoods and expanding opportunities for residents across our city.

Below are the funded projects:

Albertus Magnus College will receive $500,000 to modernize its Recreation and Swimming Center, upgrading facilities that serve students and the surrounding New Haven community
The City of New Haven will receive $250,000 for planning of Mill River Park at Ball Island, advancing green space and waterfront access in the city
Friends Center for Children, Inc. will receive $2 million to expand its Flint Street Campus, supporting the organization's early childhood education and child care programs serving New Haven families
Leadership, Education, and Athletics in Partnership, Inc. (LEAP) will receive $1.3 million to renovate the Roslyn M. Meyer Community Center, a cornerstone youth development facility in the city
Leeway, Inc. will receive $250,000 for planning to advance integrated care and housing for individuals with disabilities in New Haven

Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month

March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, a time to recognize the strengths, talents, and contributions of individuals with developmental disabilities while also raising awareness about the challenges they may face.

There are many ways to show support during Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. You can:

Engage in meaningful conversations
Share stories and experiences
Amplify the voices of people with lived experience
Help break down stereotypes and misconceptions

You can also show your support by wearing orange, the official color of Development Disabilities Awareness Month, symbolizing energy and positivity.

Supporting local organizations, advocating for inclusive policies, and ensuring that schools and workplaces are welcoming to people of all abilities are also important steps. By working together, we can build a more inclusive society where everyone, regardless of ability, is valued, respected, and empowered.

Upcoming Public Hearings

There are 10 public hearings scheduled next week - please see the graphic below for the schedule. Show up, stay informed, and have your voice heard!

CT Bar Association Free Consultations

The Connecticut Bar Association (CBA) and Statewide Legal Services of CT, Inc. are once again offering an opportunity for individuals to register for a free, 30-minute virtual consultation with a Connecticut attorney to obtain legal advice and information in a variety of legal areas.

The clinics will be held on April 21 and April 22 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Pre-registration to participate is required -- sign up HERE by April 3.

There are no income or asset eligibility restrictions – the clinics are open to all Connecticut residents. In addition, the CBA will make every effort to find an interpreter for anyone who requests that service.

Civic Learning Week

March 9–13 is Civic Learning Week in the state of Connecticut. This nationwide initiative highlights the vital role of civic education and engagement in preserving and strengthening our constitutional democracy.

By focusing on deepening public understanding of democratic values, rights, and responsibilities, this effort aims to empower citizens with the knowledge and tools needed to actively participate in democratic processes.

Through diverse educational programs, discussions, and events, Civic Learning Week fosters a collective commitment to upholding the principles of justice, equality, and freedom that are central to a thriving, inclusive society. Ultimately, it seeks to ensure the health and vitality of democracy for generations to come.

National Agriculture Week: March 16-20

Connecticut may be a small state, but its agricultural impact is significant. More than 5,000 farms operate across 372,000 acres, and the state’s agricultural industry contributes approximately $4 billion annually to Connecticut’s economy. In addition to food production, the industry supports a broad network of related activities, including processing, distribution, and agribusiness. Altogether, agriculture provides around 30,000 jobs statewide, making it an important source of employment and economic stability.

Connecticut residents also benefit from year-round access to fresh, locally grown food. With more than 100 farmers’ markets operating across the state, consumers have many opportunities to connect directly with local farmers and producers. Choosing locally grown foods not only supports farmers and strengthens the state’s economy, but also promotes healthier communities by increasing access to fresh, nutritious products.

Celebrate National Agriculture Week by supporting local farms. Click here to explore all things Connecticut Grown, from fresh local foods to farms and farmers’ markets across the state!