May 28, 2004

REP. DILLON AND SEN. HARP’S PUSH
FOR CHILDCARE CENTER FUNDS APPROVED

Today, State Representative Patricia Dillon (D-92nd) and State Senator Toni Harp (D-10th), two New Haven state lawmakers, announced their successful effort to secure state funds totaling $1,117,000 for construction of a childcare and training center at the Greater Dwight Development Corporation.

The lawmakers’ request for bonding monies was officially approved by the State Bonding Commission on Friday during one of its monthly meetings.

The state aid will go directly to the project, which consists of the construction of an 8,000 square foot building that will provide 50 child care spaces, office space and classrooms for training residents to serve as child care workers.

Rep. Dillon said, "Teamwork at its best is the reason these funds were acquired today, beginning first with the community, which first brought the project to our attention and participated in numerous meetings with Senator Harp and me on this issue. I have been very proud to help make possible the construction of the childcare and training center in New Haven. Working families will be the direct beneficiaries of this state aid, which is especially meaningful."

Sen. Harp said, "Suitable and affordable childcare is perhaps the single greatest hurdle for most working families so the release of these funds and the imminent construction of this facility for the children and families of the Dwight neighborhood is particularly good news for residents there. This plan is pretty much a 50/50 partnership with the federal government; I’m delighted to have helped secure the state’s half so we can go forward to the benefit of New Haven families."