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Money For Conference of Churches

By Jeffrey B. Cohen

April 20, 2009

The Conference of Churches, as it moves offices to the Rev. Collin Bennett Building, just got a little money from above.

Not that above. More like Gov. M. Jodi Rell above. But, hey, it's $500,000. Read the press release below.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Donna Tommelleo, 860-524-7313

April 16, 2009

Governor Rell Announces $500,000 in Bonding for Building Renovation of Faith-Based Agency

Funds to Help Conference of Churches Enhance Mission in Hartford's North End

Governor M. Jodi Rell announced today that $500,000 to help the Hartford-based Conference of Churches renovate its new headquarters and training center is expected to be approved by the State Bond Commission at its meeting on April 24.

"This is the type of economic development that is truly inspiring in terms of the families it will help and the neighborhood it will revitalize," Governor Rell said. "I am pleased we can commit these funds to help the Conference of Churches continue its good works of helping all in need achieve a better life."

The organization recently acquired the 35,000-square-foot Rev. Collin Bennett Building in Hartford's North End. The building will be used as the new headquarters for the group's administrative operations and Economic Empowerment Development Center.

Renovations to the building will include a multipurpose training room, a financial education wing, a computer bank for job searches and a resource library. There are also plans to add a common lobby, a new elevator and other improvements that will also benefit other tenants currently in the building. The project also calls for the renovation of more retail and business space to attract other tenants. The addition of the Conference operations will increase the building's occupancy from 50 to 70 percent.

The Conference of Churches, a 107-year-old faith-based ecumenical organization, serves as the state of Connecticut's Office of Faith-based and Community Initiatives, and provides a number of services designed to lift families from poverty.