Community Corner
Veterans to Get a Second Chance at Phelps Mansion
Chrysalis Center is housing previously homeless vets at the historic home.
Work is moving forward at 1 Ellington Ave. as part of Chrysalis Center’s "ongoing commitment to veterans," the organization said recently.
Chrysalis Center is set to open the renovated Phelps Mansion to allow 10 previously homeless veterans to begin rebuilding their lives with new places to live.
“This renovated house is a symbol of new life to a beautiful old landmark in the community and the new life these veterans will have,” said Sharon Castelli, Chrysalis CEO. “We also want to thank the Rockville, Vernon and Tolland communities for their outpouring of support and generosity to help the veterans who have given so much to their country.”
Mayor George Apel, reflecting on last week's dedication ceremony, said he remembers the mansion well. His grandmother knew one of the staff members well.
"There was a large stove in the house," Apel said. "And the teabags were hung behind it, drying out."
Apel said it was symbolic because just like the second-chance cups of tea, the veterans will get another start.
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