$2M Grant Awarded To Sterling House In Stratford

STRATFORD, CT — The State Bond Commission recently approved a $2 million grant for the restoration of the Sterling House in Stratford.

The funds, which will be disbursed through a grant from the Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) and received approval from the State Bond Commission on Friday, will be used to repair and restore both the interior and exterior of the 19th century structure that serves as a community center.

Lawmakers representing Stratford in the General Assembly lauded the funding.

"The iconic status of Sterling House, not just in Stratford, but across the state was recognized once again as these bond funds will provide needed structural repair to the historic building," Rep. Joseph Gresko said in a statement. “These state funds free up existing organizational funds to continue providing services, youth athletic programs and food pantry stock for Stratford residents. I have fond memories of participating in athletic programs at Sterling House."

Rep. Phil Young said, "Sterling House has graciously served the Stratford community, and these funds ensure that they will be able to do so for the foreseeable future. I'd like to thank Governor Lamont and the Bonding Commission for considering this project."

"I'm proud to see this project taking the next step in the bonding process," Rep. Ben McGorty said. "The commission's approval of these bonds will allow Stratford to offset taxpayer costs to make much-needed renovations to this property, which provides vital social services to our youth and their families."

State Sen. Kevin Kelly said, "It is an honor to advocate for the incredible people and programs at the Sterling House Community Center. So many children, seniors, and families are served by the center's food pantry, educational programs, summer camp, and youth and adult programs. Always a vibrant sense of community, Sterling House has played an especially vital role during the pandemic and throughout our recovery, supporting people with everything from food assistance to children's programming. I thank the state for recognizing the value of investing in a center that helps so many families thrive."

"The Sterling House has been a staple to many dynamic and diverse families in providing a safe and warm environment to the youth of Stratford," State Sen. Dennis Bradley said. "It is moving to know that this delegation values and acknowledges that community centers like this are crucial to establishing a sense of belonging and unity to Stratford, especially with the children and adults that participate in their various programs. Special thank you to the local and state legislators for fighting to give a voice to the community and working in collaboration, now we can rest assured that the Sterling House will be able to do the good work and continue serving our families and children."

Stratford Mayor Laura Hoydick said Sterling House “stands as one of the enduring pillars of compassion and resources for Stratford during the COVID-19 pandemic - cementing their already impeccable legacy and profound importance to our residents. The funds approved today support their important mission by allowing much-needed renovations to the Sterling House roof, drainage, exterior porches, and repair of water-damaged interior rooms including the Food Pantry, among other projects. The completion of this work will allow Sterling House to continue to properly serve the residents of Stratford, fulfilling their dedication to serve as they have since 1932."

"It has been an incredible year of determination, resilience, and heart as we worked together to serve the urgent needs of our community throughout the pandemic," said Amanda Meeson, executive director of the Sterling House. "We stayed open in service to our youth and families through our preschool, after school, virtual learning program, camp, athletics, and scaled up to support those with food insecurity, isolation, and financial instability. With this critical restoration of the roof and exterior shell, we will ensure Sterling House stands proudly to welcome and serve generations to come as we increase our capacity and deepen our impact in this great community. Thank you to our local delegation for their ongoing support and advocacy as we work together to restore our 135-year-old House."