Music From the 60’s, 70’s, 80’s and Today
Saturday, October 15th beginning at 6 p.m.
St. Mark’s Church Hall
by Louis Zayas
“Time of Your Life Dance Party” to help support Bethlehem House, the Bethlehem Advisory Council is hosting a fundraising event on October 15th at 6 p.m. at St. Mark’s Church Hall in Stratford. Tickets and sponsorships opportunities are on sale now at
www.ccfairfield.org/event/danceparty
For more information on Bethlehem House or the event, please contact Dina Hill at dina.hill@ccfc-ct.org.
What is Bethlehem House?
Catholic Charities of Fairfield County believes every family deserves a roof over their heads. Bethlehem House in Stratford is a permanent supportive housing program for families with low income and have experienced homelessness.
Bethlehem House provides housing and support for up to 9 formerly homeless families, providing them with apartments and other services including transportation assistance, household supplies and referrals.
Located in Stratford near the Bridgeport City Line, Bethlehem Houses I & II consist of two multi-story homes for supportive housing. Families can stay up to one year to transition to permanent housing.
Bethlehem House maintains its own professional staff and provides a wide range of Case Management services. This includes assisting families with furnishing apartments and decorating, if needed. Case managers assist families in accessing all necessary community-based services, including counselling, job training, job search and development of life skills.
“Like most of Catholic Charities programs, Bethlehem House offers a hand up, not a handout,” states Catholic Charities Executive Director Mike Donoghue. “All capable adults are expected to work. Residents pay a modest rent and set aside money for future permanent housing.” Residents do their own food shopping, cleaning and other chores around the property. They join with volunteers to do gardening, landscaping and other needed projects. Residents also meet with case managers to hone their life skills.
Bethlehem House’s ability to continue operating depends on the generous donations and volunteer support of the Stratford community. The program has its own Advisory Council that volunteers their time, talent and money to assist the program in fundraising efforts.
Local skilled volunteers help to maintain the 120 year old homes and Community members donate blankets, linens, kitchen and other needed supplies. The program has received grant assistance from Stratford’s Community Development Office and is supported by Stratford Community Services and the Stratford Clergy Association.
