Urban League of Southern CT True Haven Re-entry Services and Trauma-Informed Training Workshops continue Jan 6.
by Vanessa R. Simmons, Urban League of Southern CT
The Urban League of Southern Connecticut’s True Haven Reentry Program is a forward-looking research study and initiative dedicated to helping justice-involved individuals and their families achieve lasting housing stability and economic resilience. True Havens’ financial literacy education and counseling help clients rebuild with dignity and confidence as they transition home and strengthen their families.
This year, True Haven proudly served more than 81 justice-impacted households, helping individuals returning home from incarceration, or family members of individuals currently incarcerated, maintain or secure safe, stable housing, connect with employment resources, and navigate systems that too often create barriers to success with targeted financial assistance, housing navigation, and referrals to emotional support services, helping to reduce instability and stress in households affected by incarceration.
The heart of our work is housing stability. True Haven staff work one-on-one with clients to create individualized reentry assistance plans, negotiate with landlords, and connect participants to other wrap-around services. Our financial education offerings include interactive classes, one-on-one counseling, and practical tools for budgeting, credit rebuilding, and long-term economic stability. True Haven’s financial assistance is designed to bridge immediate crises and prevent eviction while empowering participants to build long-term financial strength.
Beyond direct service, True Haven actively contributes to community education and capacity building. Our Trauma-Informed Training Workshops brought together 54 community leaders, advocates, and residents to explore how trauma impacts individuals and neighborhoods. These workshops help participants recognize trauma-related signs and symptoms, practice compassionate communication, and build skills to support healing in families and communities. By increasing trauma awareness and response capacity throughout New Haven, True Haven strengthens the ecosystem of support for everyone touched by incarceration and community violence.
Our next Trauma-Informed Training will be on Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2026, from 4:30-7 p.m. at the Dixwell Q-House, Room 114, 197 Dixwell Ave. This free community workshop helps participants understand the impact of trauma and learn practical strategies to build healing-centered relationships at home, in the workplace, and in the community.
To secure your spot in this workshop, please call 203-327-5810. Refreshments will be provided. Space is limited — come early and bring a friend! Together, we can create stronger, more supportive communities.
We are actively accepting new applications for services and warmly welcome referrals from community partners, probation and parole officers, halfway houses, advocates, and family members. To apply or refer someone today, contact the Urban League of Southern Connecticut. True Haven is here to help individuals and families move from crisis toward stability, one step and one success story at a time.
Urban League of Southern CT, 203-561-3227, www.ulsc.org