The Chelsea Groton Foundation awarded $450,341 to 90 non-profit organizations from Connecticut and Rhode Island this spring. Inclusive of these donations, the Foundation has given over $6.6 million in total grants to the community since 1998. More organizations (116) applied for grants during this giving cycle than at any time in the Foundation’s 26-year history.
“The Chelsea Groton Foundation always strives to make the broadest impact with the funds that we have available for distribution. Due to a successful year in 2023 and recognizing the severe need in the community as Covid and ARPA funds are drying up, the Chelsea Groton Foundation Board made the decision to increase its grant funding from $500,000 to $750,000 this year,” explained Anthony A. Joyce, III, President and CEO of Chelsea Groton Bank and President of the Chelsea Groton Foundation. “While we were not able to approve all requests, or fund all requests fully, we are proud to be able to provide funding for 90 organizations in the critical work they do in our communities. The remaining funds will be distributed during the fall grant cycle.”
More than $250,000 in grants (57%) was distributed in the health and human services category, with 40% of that amount given to organizations supporting food insecurity, including grants to the New London Area Food Pantry ($25,000), New London Community Meal Center ($20,000), Lawrence + Memorial Hospital ($12,500) for bilibeds and supplies for the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), and Operation Fuel ($10,000). Educational projects received 18% of giving, including for leadership programming through FRESH New London ($20,000) and Higher Edge ($10,000). Housing accounted for 10% of giving; arts and culture received 7%; youth activities received 6%; and economic development received 2%. The Foundation typically reviews applications and awards grants two times per year.
Each year, the Bank and Foundation support more than 300 local organizations through monetary gifts, grants, sponsorships, scholarships, and employee volunteerism. More information, including a list of all spring grant recipients is available at chelseagroton.com/CGFoundation.
