Fourscore and seven years ago we began this much needed housing project.
My name is Anne O’Connor-Chapman and I am very pleased to be a speaker today. It is from my personal experience as a grateful tenant of Windham & Windsor Housing Trust that I share my story with you all.
I was born and raised in Brattleboro. I have lived in Vermont my entire life. In 2015 I became a widow. I wanted to go back to my roots and live in southern Vermont where my heart has always been. My son and his family live here in Putney. My 90-year-old mother also lives at Putney Landing in her own apartment unit. I am grateful for this daily interaction with her.
Living at Putney Landings has provided me with financial security for the first time in my life. I am very proud of my apartment and my community. My neighbors are a diverse group of residents. We presently have 12 senior citizens and eight families in our community. We have had a picnic and an ice cream social for all residents. The bounty of our raised bed gardens is shared when the gardeners harvest. We all support each others’ well-being and safety.
I became involved with the Housing Trust to be an advocate, to assist other individuals to experience the stability of a safe place to thrive in a community setting.
I want to commend the dedicated individuals and passionate team members that stayed focused on this project.
I look forward to spearheading community suppers between our two communities. My hope is that our placemaking fundraising for a community table is met. I also hope to establish a book club for both property’s residents.
I believe these affordable housing units will be new beginnings for all future residents of Alice Holway Drive.
My hope is that our diverse Putney community comes together to welcome all these new neighbors. Each new resident arrives with gifts and talents that will contribute to this new community. These residents will surely support Putney’s businesses and services.
Thank you to everyone who made this vision a reality. All of us need a safe place to call home.
Thank you, Anne for sharing these incredibly meaningful remarks. We’re so lucky to have you in our community and on our board!
Enjoy these pictures by Justin Altman Photography
