December 14, 2015 - Branford, CT - The Branford Community Foundation (BCF), the leader in supporting a variety of local philanthropic needs, programs and services for 35 years, has distributed a $10,000 grant to the Community Dining Room (CDR) in support of providing food, basic services and companionship to low income individuals and families in the greater Branford area.

Celebrating more than 25 years as a not-for-profit organization, CDR is the only shoreline region agency of its kind exclusively responsible for assuring that every area resident in need has access to nutritious food and meals. Daily breakfast, lunch, family dinner and take-out dinner programs serve as a vital link to improving the health and quality of life for the entire community while diminishing hunger in the region.　　

Special holiday dinners provide a welcoming gathering place for families and those often alone during festive times.　Additional CDR support services include helping with other basic human needs, health screenings and offering referrals and fellowship when applicable.

CDR serves adults and children residing in the south-central Connecticut shoreline area from East Haven to Old Saybrook including the towns of East Haven, Branford, North Branford, Guilford, Madison, Clinton, Westbrook, and Old Saybrook.

The BCF $10,000 grant will directly help to assure that all area families in need are well fed by supporting Community Dining Room general operating expenses.

The Branford Community Foundation benefits all residents by pooling contributions from like-minded citizens, managing these funds with professional guidance, and then carefully granting a portion of the income generated to local, nonprofit organizations.　 As a multipurpose permanent local charitable endowment, the Branford Community Foundation helps to build a healthy and successful community by supporting everything from basic needs and health services, to local environmental issues and education, to the arts and other programs.