The Connecticut Supportive Housing (CSH) Demonstration Program began in 1992, in response to the need for new housing solutions and new community-based services for indigent individuals who oftentimes were homeless, severely mentally ill, or abusers of alcohol or drugs. The Program was a cooperative endeavor involving the Corporation for Supportive Housing, the State of Connecticut, and a variety of local government and private agencies. In conjunction with the Central Connecticut Coast YMCA, Family Services Woodfield, and the Regional Network of Programs, Bridge House is a service provider for two CSH projects: the Crescent Apartments and the Fairfield Apartments.

Purpose:

Too often men and women who are most disabled and living on the streets find themselves exiled from treatment in mainstream health care and social services. This commonly happens because they are unable to stabilize the symptoms of their psychiatric disabilities and abstain from alcohol or drugs in order to comply with medication and appointment schedules, which are often requirements of entering many traditional housing or treatment programs.

Bridgeport Supportive Housing Program provides quality, affordable housing for individuals who may have few, if any, alternatives. The overall goal is to create an environment which allows residents to create a sense of real home and avoid returning to homelessness, increase employment abilities and opportunities, expand participation in volunteerism, and enhance their financial position and personal well being.

While living in an affordable and supportive environment it is hoped that the tenants will increase a positive self image and feel that they are a part of and become active participants in their new home community.

The Projects, Staffing, and Services

The Crescent Apartments is one of the most significant architectural structures in Bridgeport and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The building has thirty-eight units (thirty-one efficiencies and seven one-bedroom units). Restoration was completed and the building opened for tenancy in February 1997. 

The Fairfield Apartments were constructed on a former parking lot and located next to a historic site that houses the Bridgeport Rescue Mission. The building contains thirty-four units (thirty-one efficiencies and three one-bedroom units), a community room, social service and management offices, program space, and outdoor recreational and seating areas. Construction was completed and the apartments opened for tenancy in June 1998.

All units are fully furnished, with rents subsidized by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Rental costs are thirty percent of income.

At least one property management staff and one case management staff are on-site during the day and are available by pager during evening and weekend hours. Case management services include linkage with other service providers, help with grocery shopping, social services and legal advocacy.

There is an array of support services assisting tenants in achieving needed residential stability and, whenever possible, necessary linkages with their families, and the community at large.

Both Crescent and Fairfield apartment buildings have Tenant Associations. Tenants plan Holiday Celebrations, activities, and fundraisers.

They have coffee hours, bingo, movie nights and tenants may access the food pantry.

Further Information

The information that appears on this page was provided by the Shore Area Community Development Corporation Supportive Services Director. For further information contact Lili Aalto-Fisher at 331-0067.

Links

Corporation for Supportive Housing, which has a wealth of information on programs and resources  

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