That simple question sparked dozens of heartfelt conversations during this year’s Main Street Festival, where our newly formed Stratford Homeless and Housing Task Force welcomed residents to stop by its booth and share their thoughts about housing in our community.
It was a beautiful day, with thousands of people enjoying the festival. Many paused to share stories that reflected their love for the town, its beauty, and its public safety, while also expressing concern that rising home prices and taxes are making housing less affordable.
There were conversations about seniors who can no longer afford to stay in their homes, parents discouraged that their adult children are moving to more affordable towns, and young families realizing that the starter home they bought may be the home they keep forever.
One thing became clear throughout the day: people care deeply about Stratford and want future generations to have the same opportunity to call it home.
The Stratford Homeless and Housing Task Force was formed to bring residents together to better understand these challenges and explore practical, community-driven solutions. In addition to addressing housing affordability, the Task Force is working to identify both short- and long-term solutions to homelessness in Stratford by bringing together community partners, service providers, local leaders, and residents to better understand needs and develop meaningful responses. We know there are no simple answers, but meaningful progress begins with informed conversations and broad community participation.
Whether you are a lifelong resident, a homeowner, renter, senior, young adult, business owner, or someone who simply cares about Stratford’s future, your voice is important. Housing and homelessness affect every part of our community—from our workforce and local economy to our schools, neighborhoods, and quality of life.
We invite you to be part of the conversation. Attend an upcoming Task Force meeting or stay informed by signing up to receive email updates about future meetings, community conversations, and opportunities to participate. The Stratford Homeless Taskforce meets on the last Tuesday of each month at the First Congregational Church on 2301 Main St, Stratford, CT 06615, starting at 5:00pm. Please also feel free to e-mail housingforall@thehousingcollective.org for more information.
Stratford’s future is in our hands. Together, we can help ensure it remains a community where people of all ages and incomes have access to safe, stable housing, where homelessness is addressed with compassion and practical solutions, and where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Co-Contributors: Therese LeFever, Cathy Collins, and Jennifer Paradis Members of the Stratford Homeless Taskforce
The rents in Stratford are over the top. There are no affordable apts. for seniors.