Commission unanimously approves ‘Center for Change’ supportive‑services center at 605 Main Street

The Middletown Planning & Zoning Commission unanimously approved a special exception for The Connection to operate a supportive‑services program, called the Center for Change, in a storefront at 605 Main Street.

Beth Connor, speaking for The Connection, described the proposal as a refurbishment of the former Buttonwood space to create a gathering center for people transitioning from homelessness. Quinnipiac University occupational therapy professor Noreen Carlson told the commission the program focuses on four pillars — housing, employment, sobriety and health management — and described successful vocational arts and living‑skills programming that has engaged more than 185 unique individuals in the past year. Mary Ellen Shuckerow of Saint Vincent de Paul said the organization has provided case management to Liberty Commons for three decades and will staff and support programming.

Commissioners praised the collaborative model. Commissioner Tyler Eckstrom called the plan “a wonderful project” and said the service network is the kind of community approach that supports people with addiction and homelessness. The commission voted in favor without recorded opposition.

Next steps: Applicant will follow any standard conditions of the special exception and proceed with interior improvements and program setup.