Community Updates
WoosterSqWatch
As part of its ongoing Neighborhood Beautification Project, the Historic Wooster Square Association (HWSA) launched a weeklong Neighborhood Clean-Up Challenge from May 20–27. This fun and meaningful initiative invited residents to roll up their sleeves, grab some gloves, and help remove litter from our beloved neighborhood streets, parks, and sidewalks. Participants were encouraged to document their efforts by submitting photos of the trash they collected. Submissions were judged by the HWSA Board based on visible effort and total bag count. The Board was thrilled by the creativity, care, and community spirit that shone through each of three entries - and was so impressed that they decided to award all three participants the grand prize — a $50 gift card to a local restaurant of their choice. This initiative raised awareness about the amount of litter in our community while celebrating the everyday actions that make Wooster Square cleaner, safer, and more beautiful. Thank you to all who participated and cheered others on! We look forward to continuing these efforts and hope to see even more neighbors join next time. Together, we make Wooster Square shine!
The Grand Prize winners were:
- Dorsey, who cleaned Wooster Street – A dedicated neighborhood steward whose efforts show consistent commitment.
- Aijah, who cleaned Chestnut Street – Found unique and impactful ways to clean up her block, including creatively using reusable bags.
- Aisla (6) and Lia (3), who together cleaned Wooster Square – These young environmentalists began picking up litter in the memory of a family friend and have kept it going for months. Their story and enthusiasm inspired us all. As their mom wrote: “Aisla and Lia have been picking up trash since March, when we lost a family friend who was very much an environmentalist. We want to honor him and also clean up our community spaces and help wildlife. The kids have really enjoyed it.”
A full draft of the Vision 2034 Comprehensive Plan is available on the City Plan Department website!
Share your feedback by emailing Esther at City Plan (erose...@newhavenct.gov).
Join us on Zoom on June 18th at 7pm for a presentation and discussion of the draft plan with the New Haven City Plan Commission. More information here.
IRIS and Community Soup Kitchen Launch New Center | Inspiring Partnership
Here is an inspiring partnership near the entry to our own Wooster Square, shared by East Rock/Fair Haven Ward 9 Alder Caroline Smith - So proud to cheer on and support an inspiring new partnership between IRIS (Integrated Refugee & Immigrant Services) and Community Soup Kitchen of New Haven! Together, they are expanding food access through a 5,000 sq. foot service center at 75 Hamilton Street in Fair Haven.
Livable City Initiative (LCI) – 203-946-7090 - Downtown/Wooster Sq Neighborhood Specialist Elijah McLauren - 203.946.2333.