Since 2017, we have been working to address the affordability gap with housing solutions in North Stonington.
How We Got Started
KNSA, Inc. was formed due to need in our community. We were compelled by the fact North Stonington’s median home price in 2000 was $159,400 rose to $291,416 in 2021. That was more than an 80% cost increase while wages did not increase accordingly. The income needed to afford the median rent of $1,417 is $50,000 to $70,000. The median income for renters in town is $34,730.
We agree with Susanne Slater, President and CEO of D.C. Habitat: “Homeownership is transformational, both for individuals and communities. Health outcomes improve, children do better in school, it stabilizes neighborhoods because people are more concerned and more engaged.”
The Hometown Solution
Our Mission
KNSA’s mission is to ensure that the people of North Stonington, and those wishing to live here, can find housing within their budgets. By using available private and public funding, we will provide affordable housing options for first-time homebuyers, seniors, renters and those who otherwise cannot afford to live in North Stonington. We will do so in a manner which enhances our community while retaining the rural character of our town.
Our vision
Our vision is a North Stonington where affordable housing is accessible to all residents, fostering community stability and enhancing quality of life. We strive to ensure that everyone, regardless of income, can find a home that supports their well-being and contributes to the preservation of our town’s unique rural character.
Join Us in Making a Difference
KNSA needs your energy and dedication to help make North Stonington’s housing affordable for everyone. Get involved and support our mission to provide homes for teachers, police officers, nurses, and seniors. Contact us to learn how you can make a difference in our community and help us create a more inclusive and vibrant town.
Meet The Board
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Mary Ann Ricker
DIRECTOR & PRESIDENT
Mary Ann is a retired teacher and served on the North Stonington Board of Education. She was a member of North Stonington Affordable Housing (Ad Hoc) Advisory Committee in 2008, then appointed and served as a member/chair of the North Stonington Affordable Housing Committee in 2009 until 22021. An Incorporator of Keeping North Stonington Affordable, a 501(c)(3) corporation in 2018 she now serves as president. She is an enthusiastic gardener and founder of the Hewitt Farm Community Garden association. -
Jeff Nelson
DIRECTOR & VP PRO TEM
Jeff has been on the KNSA Board of Directors since 2018 and currently occupies the Vice President position. He has been active in obtaining estimates from contractors and doing hands-on work maintaining KNSA owned property. Jeff has been a resident of North Stonington since 1987. -
Denise Hawk
DIRECTOR & SECRETARY
Denise Hawk is passionate about advocating for the just treatment of under represented members of our community. As a member of the Board of Directors and Secretary, Denise Hawk helps to manage online content, helps with designing promotional materials and records meeting minutes. Denise is a CT certified teacher, a member of the GNL Church in Mystic, and enjoys exploring and traveling with her family and friends.
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Sue Latourette
DIRECTOR & TREASURER
Sue Latourette is the pastor of the Congregational Church of North Stonington. She has served on various Habitat for Humanity boards and cares deeply about helping people not only find affordable housing but building a home. -
Jennifer Dayton
DIRECTOR
Advocates for local and state funding to allow small towns to create affordable housing. She attends meetings with KNSA's funding consultant and identifies supplementary funding sources for KNSA developments.
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Patrick Colgan
DIRECTOR
Patrick Colgan’s role is to represent and advocate for the disabled community. Patrick works as a baker for Puffins restaurant in Groton. He is an assistant scoutmaster for our local Boy Scout troop, is a 4-season special Olympian, and is a member of the Towns Affordable Housing Committee.
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Jennifer Sawyer, LCSW
DIRECTOR
Jennifer has been working with KNSA since 2023. She is a member of the Fundraising Committee and has been involved in multiple fundraising initiatives. Jennifer has a strong commitment to developing affordable housing in the North Stonington area.