By: Mabel Thompson, UConn School of Public Policy Intern
On May 5, 2025, Park City Communities (PCC) and the Partnership for Strong Communities (PSC) hosted a site visit at Charles F. Greene Homes in Bridgeport, convening nonprofit advocates, community leaders, and government officials to highlight the critical role of federal rental assistance in the lives of Bridgeport residents. The event showcased PCC’s inspiring progress and underscored the grave risks posed by potential federal funding cuts.
Leading the PCC initiative, CEO Jillian Baldwin detailed the collaborative roadmap developed with input from staff, residents, and local, state, and federal leaders. She emphasized how resident voices have shaped plans for revitalized community spaces and praised the success of “braided funding”, a strategic blend of local, state, federal, and philanthropic resources. Baldwin posed a sobering question: “How do we as a community bridge the gap if federal funds get cut?” Her message was clear: residents are not just beneficiaries, but key decision-makers in sustaining community transformation.
Speakers throughout the event voiced deep concern over the future of affordable housing, beginning with Vice Chair of PCC, Cowlis Andrews who highlighted the importance of having a vision for economic development guiding their efforts, and stressed the importance of providing safe, decent and affordable housing for the community. Vernita Tertullien, representing Congressman Himes’s office, affirmed the Congressman’s commitment to housing affordability amid growing uncertainty at the federal level. John Delgado, of the Bridgeport Department of Economic Development, praised PCC’s efforts and outlined how local policy and permitting support can further enhance affordable housing initiatives.
State Senator Sujata Gadkar-Wilcox and City Council Members Jorge Cruz and Eneida Martinez stressed the urgency of continued collaboration. Councilman Cruz, sharing his connection to the community, reflected on the transformative changes PCC has implemented and warned of the heartbreak residents would face if critical funding were withdrawn. Councilwoman Martinez highlighted the mounting pressure on shelters, reinforcing the urgent need for stable, long-term housing solutions.
The conversation turned to the broader implications of proposed federal cuts. Chelsea Ross, Executive Director at the Partnership, called attention to the Trump Administration’s proposed $33.6 billion in HUD budget cuts for Fiscal Year 2026, including $27 billion slashed from Section 8 rental assistance. She condemned these reductions as policies that “don’t just fail to meet the moment but instead add fuel to the flame.” David Rich added sobering context, citing a 7% increase in homelessness in Fairfield County and further reinforcing the need for strong public-private partnerships to sustain housing initiatives.
The event concluded with recognition of the tireless efforts by PCC staff and their partners. Baldwin acknowledged the historic commitment of City Council members and introduced Anahi Momplaisir, the project manager who will help in overseeing the continued transformation at Greene Homes.
This site visit served as a celebration of progress and a call to action. It illuminated the urgent need to safeguard these gains from the threat of federal disinvestment. As the affordable housing crisis deepens, local and state leaders, with community advocates, must remain steadfast in demanding continued and expanded support. The stakes are simply too high to lose momentum now