Community Foundation Continues Equity Focus Through Grants in Four Priority Areas

Friday, June 12, 2020

   

NEW LONDON, CT -- The Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut announced today grants of $1,034,525 in support of four strategic priorities: youth empowerment, basic needs and rights, environmental conservation and education, and animal welfare. These awards are in addition to $1,180,942 in recent grants to organizations on the front line of supporting those impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

These grants have been made possible by caring donors who established funds for these purposes and partner with the Community Foundation to put their generosity into action for the good of our region.  “We are privileged to have strong partnerships with our donors and organizations dedicated to lifting and empowering those with the greatest needs,” said President and CEO, Maryam Elahi. “Our grant review teams of community members sought to emphasize initiatives that target underrepresented communities and incorporate a focus on equity in their work.” 

Grant highlights from the Community Foundation’s focus on equity across its 42-town footprint include:

Programs to engage urban youth in educational and active pursuits, such as the City of Norwich Recreation Department’s Summer Youth Camp. A grant of $25,000 will enable children to attend this summer program that additionally provides much-needed childcare for working parents.

Organizations that support advocacy and education on key topics impacting our region: $6,000 was awarded to the Connecticut News Project for Embracing Inclusive Economic Growth, a series of investigative journalism and public programs to engage community organizations and residents in advocating for a more equitable economy.

Environmental programs that connect young people in urban environments to the land and food production:

  • Grow Windham was awarded $20,000 for youth leadership and urban farming in Willimantic while FRESH New London received a grant of $25,000 for youth-led efforts restoring parks and creating hubs of local food production.

Medical care for pets that benefit families with limited income and pets who need care to become adoptable:

  • Grants totaling $30,800 went to Stand Up for Animals, Animal Welfare League of New London County, Groton Animal Foundation, Ledyard CHAIN, Our Companions Animal Rescue, and PAWS Cat Shelter.

Please visit our website for a complete list of grantees.

Grantee photos: photo 1: Norwich Recreation Department Summer Day Camp; photo 2: Urban farming with Grow Windham; photo 3: Our Companions Animal Rescue caring for a furry friend on the mend

About the Community Foundation
Serving 42 towns and comprised of 550 charitable funds, the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut puts philanthropy into action to address the needs, rights and interests of the region, focusing on four priority areas: empowering youth, promoting basic needs and rights, preserving the environment, and advancing animal welfare. The Foundation manages a permanent community endowment and has awarded more than $62 million in grants and scholarships to nonprofits and students since its founding in 1983.

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Contact:

Jennifer O’Brien
Program Director
Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut
860-442-3572 
jennob@cfect.org    

Website: www.cfect.org