Larson, DeLauro Host Roundtable in Middletown to Highlight New Programs Funded by the American Rescue Plan

Middletown, CT – Today, Reps. John B. Larson (CT-01) and Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) hosted a roundtable at Middletown’s Russell Library to highlight new city programs funded by the American Rescue Plan, COVID-19 relief legislation Larson and DeLauro helped author and pass in Congress. The City of Middletown received more than $29 million in federal aid from the American Rescue Plan.

"The federal funds we secured in the American Rescue Plan for Middletown are having a direct impact on residents,” said Larson. “We heard today from Mayor Florsheim and the local leaders who have developed new programs that will serve residents of all ages this summer and improve city services moving forward, including critical mental health resources and early childhood education initiatives.” 

“The American Rescue Plan is historic and transformative, proving that the federal government can have a real impact on working families and not just the wealthy and big corporations. I am proud to see its impact in Middletown,” said Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro. “Our towns need resources to support outreach efforts such as mentorship programs, mental health services, humanities enrichment, and recreation for our families and seniors. This funding addresses those needs. I was proud to join Congressman John Larson and community members in Middletown today to talk about investments in our communities. We must continue to work to lower taxes and address cost of living concerns for working families.” 

“The American Rescue Plan Act has been a critical lifeline for cities and towns like Middletown, and my team and I have been fully committed to a transparent, community-driven process to spend our federal relief dollars responsibly and effectively,” said Middletown Mayor Ben Florsheim. “As we heard today, the needs that ARPA aims to meet did not emerge only because of COVID-19. But the pandemic and our response to it has made two things very clear - first, Connecticut residents are ready and willing to come together to support one another and navigate our toughest challenges. Second, that cooperation is simply not possible unless local, state, and federal levels of government are working together to help. That’s exactly what is happening in Middletown under ARPA, and as a result of this legislation, more kids will be enrolled in summer activities this year, more books will make it into families’ homes, more people will have the support they need to seek out mental health care and stay in treatment, and more businesses will be able to open their doors and create jobs. I am grateful to Congressman Larson, Congresswoman DeLauro, and our entire delegation for hearing these needs, taking action, and getting results.” 

Some of the new programs that the City of Middletown will offer with American Rescue Plan funds include: 

• expanded evening and weekend hours at the Senior Center 

• a teaching artist mentorship program for teens 

• humanities enrichment programming for K-12 and homeschool students 

• a Mental Health Service Navigation program to assist residents with mental health needs 

• accessibility upgrades at the Russell Library