Agency celebrates grand opening in Ansonia

Ansonia Mayor David S. Cassetti, fourth from left, helps Big Brothers Big Sisters staff celebrate the grand opening Saturday of the nonprofit's donation center and offices in Ansonia. Cassetti's son, David, holds the ribbon at left. At far right is Bill Purcell, President, Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce.


ANSONIA - Saturday was a big day for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwestern Connecticut as staff celebrated the grand opening of a donation station and call center here.

Big Brothers Big Sisters was established in 1904. The organization works to recruit and match adults with at-risk children who need mentoring to help them boost their self-confidence and academic achievement.

The Bridgeport-based nonprofit serves Fairfield County, Greater New Haven, and the Lower Naugatuck Valley, Ellen Tracy, executive director, said. 

The facility is at 7 Clifton Ave. at the corner of Division Street. A call center was relocated from North Haven to Ansonia. The site also houses an operations center.
Operations manager Ken Kuntz lives in Ansonia and noticed the location had been vacant for a while. 
He said, "The Valley has always been a great place for us (for donations) and I thought this is the place we should be."

In 2009 a foundation was established to handle donations of used clothing, shoes, household items, appliances, books, toys, and more. 
Donated items are re-sold at Savers stores in Connecticut to benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters. 

For donation information visit www.bbbsdonate.org.