Helen McAlinden is excited about yesterday’s housing rally on Jesup Green.
The event — co-sponsored by Homes with Hope, the Westport Housing Authority and Westport Department of Human Services — drew dozens of housing supporters, and a number of politicians.
McAlinden — executive director of Homes with Hopes — says:
“Their attendance and support shows us we have friends and advocates at the State Capitol. It was brilliant to see that!
“With Connecticut’s $300 million of American Rescue Plan Act funds unallocated at this time, our collective voices were heard. But this needs to continue, so that these funds are invested in affordable housing and support services to protect our most vulnerable residents.
Young attendees carried signs at yesterday’s rally. (Photo/Lauren Braver Schiller)
“We would like to thank First Selectman Jim Marpe, Elaine Daignault (Human Services director) and Carol Martin (Housing Authority director) for their partnership and leadership in hosting such a wonderful shindig in Westport. They did a brilliant job highlighting the Fairfield County housing crisis.
“But our efforts are not over. Please continue your advocacy. Now, with this event fresh in people’s minds, is the time to continue to spread the word and consider doing a similar event in other communities.
“One woman’s story — which mirrored many others — brought the event into a real-life scenario which was appreciated by everyone. The town of Westport and Westport Housing Authority will be happy to lend their support to help produce a similar event in every community highlighting, how small, affluent towns can be part of the answer.”
Click below for a video of the event:
Great to see the young at the rally. They will force change as the Westport elders remain quiet.
Marpe though, all show.