Dear Neighbor,
We had a productive session on Wednesday, with a lot happening, including a deal secured for the $40 million in special education funding for our communities. Danbury is slated to receive close to $385,000 in additional funding by mid-April.
In addition, the State Assembly provided critical support for nonprofits, passed the state’s 5-year plan for conservation and development, and approved a number of judicial, magistrate, and other key appointments.
All of this, while advocating for Danbury’s priorities.
With four months left in this legislative session, we remain focused on delivering real progress for the people. |
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Affordable and accessible childcare is essential for Connecticut families and businesses to thrive. H.B. 5003, a top legislative priority for House Democrats this session, will expedite funding for families, attract and retain childcare educators, and enhance both new and existing childcare facilities.
This proposal builds upon Public Act 24-91, passed unanimously last year, and signed by the Governor, which established the Early Childhood Care and Education Fund. Investing in early childhood care and education produces better educational, health, social, and economic outcomes, driving increased revenue while reducing the need for costly spending. |
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| Nearly 75% of Connecticut's 181,000 children under the age of five receive care outside the home while their parents work. By providing targeted funding and expanding access to childcare, H.B. 5003 will put more money back into our economy by opening new opportunities for stay-at-home parents to re-enter the workforce. This is not just an investment in childcare — it is an investment in the children of Connecticut and the prosperity of our state. |
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I am so proud of the incredible work the United Way of Coastal and Western Connecticut does in our community!
Its impact is felt by so many, and I’m grateful for all it does. I gave a speech at its gala on Thursday, during which I noted the amazing Isabel Almeida, who leads this organization and is one of the smartest women I’ve ever known. With her compassionate leadership, the United Way will continue to make a difference in Danbury and beyond.
Thank you to Isabel, Ashley Gaudiano, and the entire United Way team for your unwavering efforts.
And a special thanks to my wife, Kitty, for being a dedicated volunteer for this event. |
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| This week I took part in Read Across America by reading "Elephants Cannot Dance!" -- with the dynamic duo of Gerald and Piggie -- to a great class at Pembroke School. |
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OK, setting the record straight. The only thing Irish about me is my first name.
But I do appreciate and enjoy celebrating Irish culture in Danbury. I had a great time last weekend supporting the St. Patrick’s Day Ball with Kitty and our friends.
Congrats to this year’s honorees, Eileen Cunningham and Patrick Fahey.
Last year, I helped secure $15,000 in state funding to support the festival and parade and I’m proud to have been able to help promote their heritage in that way! Special shoutout to the Heartys for all they’ve done and continue to do for our community!
Looking forward to all the celebrations this month. |
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As always, if you have any comments or questions, please reach out to my office.
Sincerely,
Farley Santos |
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