Malta House, a residence for homeless pregnant and parenting mothers of all faiths and their children in Norwalk, will hold its Annual Gala on Saturday, April 29, at Woodway Country Club in Darien.
The gala includes 6:30pm Cocktails, Dinner, Live Auction, and popular “Bubbles & Bling” raffle, to benefit the programs provided at Malta House. This year’s gala honors The Most Reverend Frank J. Caggiano, Bishop of Bridgeport.
The vision for Malta House came over 20 years ago when a young father learned that there were few services for the many homeless pregnant women in Fairfield County who chose life for their unborn. Vulnerable young mothers often found themselves living on the street or in sub-standard conditions. Once accepted into our residential program—which can accommodate up to 10 families—the young women are supported with programs aimed at self-sufficiency including training in parenting, education, career, and financial security. Unlike a shelter, Malta House provides enriching residential services that also include spiritual direction and personal development. It is the only maternity group home for pregnant women over 18 years—one of a limited number of residential programs for young parenting mothers and their children—in Fairfield County.
The residential program lasts up to 18 months with a “Partnering Success” program that provides follow-up services and outreach to guide the women through the initial stages of life as parents on their own.
Malta House board chair Kim Petrone says, “We are very grateful to Bishop Caggiano for his continuing support of the Malta House mission, and so pleased that he has agreed to be honored as recipient of the annual John Swanhaus Award at our upcoming Gala. Bishop Caggiano has been a true friend of Malta House—he graciously responds to our requests for assistance, such as inviting our residents to his house for a cook-out every summer, and he makes every effort to participate in our events when we celebrate the courage of our young women. We are so blessed to have him as our Bishop.”
Bishop Caggiano values the dreams of those who seek the help of Malta House. He says, “Malta House plays an integral part in the mission of our Diocese as it allows young mothers and their children to have a healthy and holy start to their life. Malta House provides the children an opportunity to grow and be educated, and the young mothers a beginning to a life that holds promise and opportunity.”
For more information about Malta House and details about its upcoming Annual Gala: visit www.maltahouse.org or call (203) 857-0088.
Photo: Enjoying the annual picnic at the Bishop’s residence: Bishop Caggiano surrounded by Malta House mothers and their children, August 2015.
