Housing and Homelessness
Bethlehem House
Serving Stratford
IMPORTANT INFORMATION: If you, or someone you know, is at risk of having to leave their home and having nowhere to stay, please dial 2-1-1 and press Option 3 to speak with a 2-1-1 Housing Crisis Specialist. The line is open daily 24 hours a day.
Bethlehem House is a permanent supportive housing program for families with low income and have experienced homelessness. The program 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.
Services
- Residents work with case managers for the skills and support they need as they move towards self-sufficiency.
- These two multi-story homes hold nine partially furnished apartments, where families have their own home in a quiet and safe environment.
- Residents pay an affordable rent and they are expected to work.
Other Information
Partners: Supported by Stratford Community Services and the Stratford Clergy Association.
Funding: Stratford’s Community Development Office provides capital grants.
Maintenance: Skilled volunteers help us improve and maintain these 120 year-old houses.
Donations: In addition to time and money, community members donate blankets, linens, kitchen and other household items.
To volunteer or donate items, contact Griscencia Dominguez, Office Manager.
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (203) 399-8962
In order to obtain a unit in Bethlehem House, please first call 2-1-1 to be referred to our program.
Bethlehem House is supported by an active group of community members.
“I believe in my responsibility to lift those with less opportunity, and ensure they have an equitable chance to succeed.”
– Stephanie Philips, Advisory Council Member
Advisory Council Members
F. Paul Kurmay – Chairman
The Reverend Canon Patricia M. (Pat) Coller
Linda Graves
Deacon Bill Koniers
Bob Jaekle
Roderick Mack
Stephanie Philips
Mary L. Semedo
Tamara Trojanowski
HOUSING PROGRAM NEWS
A Community’s Role in Rebuilding Lives
Discover how Mr. Wilson rebuilt his life with the support of Catholic Charities of Fairfield County’s Housing Case Management Program. Facing challenges, including past mistakes and personal struggles, he found hope and guidance. Follow his journey as he navigates adversity, pursues education, and secures stable housing, showcasing the transformative power of community support.
Rebuilding Lives: Empowering Futures through Housing Case Management
After facing several challenges including homelessness, Mr. McNeill was matched with the CCR program. CCR offers strengths-based case management and permanent housing for individuals with histories of chronic homelessness and incarceration. With the support of this program, Mr. McNeill found a lifeline in Catholic Charities.
Celebrating Success and Community at Merton Homes in 2023
Merton Homes proudly welcomed Marisol Ruiz-Shanley as the new case manager in December 2022, and her impactful work has resonated positively with clients and the community since then. This article is a heartfelt recap of the remarkable successes and accomplishments achieved by Merton Homes residents throughout 2023.
