Valerie Seldon Photos
The second floor balcony at Union Station, New Haven, dressed for the Columbus House “30 Years of Providing Solutions for Homelessness” event.
Columbus House’s Lisa Polizzo sent in this write-up about the homelessness service agency’s 30th anniversary party last Saturday:
Columbus House celebrated “30 Years of Providing Solutions for Homelessness” on Saturday evening, October 20th. A night of fine jazz music, good food, a silent auction and camaraderie was enjoyed by the approximately 220 friends and supporters who attended. The elegant event was held on the second floor balcony of Union Station in New Haven, an appropriate setting, serving as a reminder of the significance of the event. Many experiencing homelessness have, in desperation, sought shelter in the warmth of the train station.
Mayor John DeStefano and Columbus House Executive Director Alison Cunningham display a proclamation from Rosa DeLauro at the Columbus House “30 Years of Providing Solutions for Homelessness” event.
Mayor DeStefano was in attendance, welcoming guests and congratulating Columbus House on their 30th Anniversary. He told the crowd that he is proud to be part of the New Haven community, a unique city in that it is welcoming to all. He applauded Columbus House for helping to make New Haven that welcoming city.
Although Rosa DeLauro could not attend the event, she sent a proclamation that will be read into the congressional record. In it she lauds Columbus House for its commitment to ending homelessness and recognizes the work of the Board of Directors, staff and volunteers toward realizing that goal. She adds: “I am honored to have this opportunity to extend my deepest thanks and appreciation to them for all of their good work and to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the organization as they mark this very special occasion. I know that they will continue their efforts until the time that they can say: mission accomplished.”
All proceeds from the event will go towards Columbus House’s “Solutions Fund”, which was introduced at the event. The “Solution to Ending Homelessness” is housing and support services. The goal of the “Solutions Fund” is to raise $500,000 to enable Columbus House to move quickly in support of new housing opportunities and new program development. If you would like to learn more about the “Solutions Fund” please contact John Brooks, Director of Development, 203 – 401-4400 x 108. Your support of our goal to end homelessness is greatly appreciated!
Ashika and DeShawn Brinkley stand on the balcony of Union Station at the Columbus House “30 Years of Providing Solutions for Homelessness” event. Ashika was a member of the Columbus House 30th Event Committee.
L-R: Nester & Cathy Velez, Vice President, Branch Manager; Webster Bank and Columbus House board member, and Kathy Luria, Vice President of Community Affairs, Webster Bank, & Michael Benson at the Columbus House “30 Years of Providing Solutions for Homelessness” event.
Guests of the Columbus House “30 Years of Providing Solutions for Homelessness” event, mingle on the balcony at Union Station, New Haven.