State Legislature Grants Saint Joseph Parenting Center $250K Effective July 1, 2022
Thanks to the determined championing of Senator Patricia Billie Miller (27th District, Stamford), Saint Joseph Parenting Center (SJPC) has received a $250,000 grant from the State of Connecticut to invest in its parenting education and community support programs, effective July 1, 2022.n
In a bill passed by the state legislature and signed into law by Governor Ned Lamont in May, the grant falls under the Department of Economic Aid and Community Development. It is earmarked for general parenting programs—most of which serve low- to moderate-income families. It will also fund curriculum revisions prompted by the effects of the pandemic, communication efforts to reach more parents in need of SJPC support, community-building meals served at parenting classes, and the software used to track parent goals and outcomes.
A product of strong parents herself and a consistent voice for vulnerable communities, Senator Miller has a special understanding of the power of a loving, supportive home environment, particularly when it is combined with education.
“Parents and primary caregivers are essential in nurturing the physical, emotional, and well-being of a child which are keys to healthy brain development,” said Senator Miller. “The Saint Joseph Parenting Center is an important resource where caregivers can learn effective parenting and how to instill a strong foundation for their children to reach their full potential. Investing in families benefits the community and economy long term.”
While concentrated on strengthening families at risk of child abuse and neglect through its programs, SJPC also helps parents who proactively seek ways to do their best by their kids, to reverse unhealthy patterns they may have been born into themselves. In 2021, SJPC served 350 parents, a number that is on track to increase 22% this year.
