St. Charles Borromeo Church in Bridgeport – Embraces a Booming Revitalization

From Fairfield County Catholic – May 2026

For decades, the massive former school building at St. Charles Borromeo Church has sat vacant. Over time, with years of non-use, it became more than just empty – it became an eyesore and even dangerous. Many ideas were explored, plans discussed, and possibilities considered, but in the end, the building was simply too far gone to restore.

Now, something new is beginning. On May 6, 2026, demolition got underway with a boom – and with it, a story not of loss, but of partnership and possibility.

The Foundations in Faith SFX Fund stepped in with a significant two-year grant to help make this project a reality. In year one, a $125,000 grant supported the critical work of disconnecting and capping utility lines – no small task, but an essential first step toward demolition. In July, a second-year grant of $75,000 will help offset the cost of creating a new parking area on the site.

This transformation will do more than improve aesthetics – it will enhance safety for the neighborhood and provide much-needed parking for a thriving parish that ranks among the top five in Mass attendance in the Diocese. Thousands attend Mass each weekend at St. Charles!

Bishop Caggiano brought together a strong network of partners to move this forward. Bob Scinto, with remarkable generosity, is donating much of the demolition work—a true gift for the parish and community.