Our vision is a thriving and resilient city where all residents and communities can live full, meaningful lives. We envision a robust support system for residents and communities impacted by poverty, structural racism, trauma, and involvement in the criminal legal system.  

Mission

The New Haven Department of Community Resilience invests in partnerships advancing equitable community-based approaches that create socioeconomic opportunities for our most vulnerable residents while dismantling structural racism and promoting healing from trauma and exposure to violence. 

To carry out its mission, the department is divided into the following sections: Office of Housing and Homeless Services, Office of Community Mental Health Initiatives, Office of Violence Prevention and Special Projects.

The following HEART values guide what we do and how we do it: 

1. Healing and Resilience: We recognize that exposure to trauma has a long-term impact on individuals, therefore we value healing and resilience as essential pillars for individuals and the community at large. We foster a culture of strength, healing, and growth in the face of challenges. 
2. Equity: We acknowledge the role of historic and ongoing racism in influencing opportunity and outcomes. We prioritize dismantling structural racism and oppressive systems while empowering our most vulnerable residents and neighborhoods to create inclusive interventions. 
3. Affirming: We emphasize the importance of caring for others and empathizing with people from all walks of life. We strongly believe in treating people with respect, kindness, and the utmost consideration for their dignity. 
4. Restorative and Transformative Justice: We advocate for fair and restorative practices that contribute to a safer and more just community for all and reduce reliance on coercive and punitive approaches to solve social problems. 
5. Transparent Impact: Our policies and interventions are transparent, fostering public trust in government actions.