Press Release from Branford Community Foundation

The Branford Community Foundation (BCF) is pleased to announce the distribution of $93,050 in community impact grants to 34 area non-profits. These grants, ranging from $800 to $8,000, support vital programs and services which significantly benefit Branford residents.

In 2024, BCF experienced a record-breaking year, receiving 45 grant applications—a 32% increase from the previous year. The total funding requested was $245,338, marking a 26% rise from last year's figures. This increase underscores the growing needs within our community and the expanding role of BCF in addressing them.

“This year, the Branford Community Foundation is thrilled to have awarded 34 grants, marking a significant milestone for our Community Investment Committee,” said Amy Etzel, board member and chair of the Community Investment Committee. “Our committee members thoughtfully reviewed each request, ensuring that every dollar donated is invested in non-profits that truly make a difference in our community. We saw a remarkable increase in the number of applications, including several new organizations, directly resulting from our recent collaboration with the Town of Branford to distribute $395,000 in federal American Rescue Plan Act funds. This partnership enabled us to reach more residents and raise awareness about the foundation and our mission.”

The 2024 guiding principles in reviewing grant applications were basic needs, including food insecurity, shelter, emergency financial assistance, and childcare; mental health services, including promoting awareness, prevention, and intervention related to mental health and substance misuse; programs which create joy in the Branford community; child and youth development services; striving for high impact in the Branford community; and the consideration of supporting organizations and populations which are disparately impacted and which BCF may not have previously supported.

“Our annual grant-making is a core part of our mission to improve the quality of life in Branford by connecting those who care with meaningful causes,” said Executive Director Liza Janssen Petra. “These grants enable our dedicated non-profit partners to meet the changing needs of our community. We are deeply thankful to our generous donors who recognize and appreciate the significance of local giving.”

The funds for these grants come from charitable donations made by individuals, families, businesses, and organizations which comprise BCF's endowment. BCF is profoundly grateful to the members of its generous community for their ongoing support of its work.

“The 2024 grant recipients reflect our commitment to both long-standing and new community partners. This year's beneficiaries include established organizations like the Community Dining Room, BH Care, and Branford Arts and Cultural Alliance, along with newcomers such as Peace Love and Accessibility, Travelling Toys, and Branford Garden Club,” Etzel added. “We are particularly proud to have disbursed funds across a wide range of interest areas, including mental health, arts, education, and social services. We are excited to continue building meaningful relationships with non-profits across Branford, enhancing our collective impact on the community.”

The BCF’s annual grant cycle starts in January. All non-profits serving the Branford community are welcome to apply. To see the list of the 2024 community grant recipients and their respective funding, visit www.branfordcommunityfoundation.org/about-grants.

The BCF, founded in 1980, is a public, non-profit, tax exempt, and charitable trust. It provides an administrative and philanthropic service—a means by which public-spirited citizens may make gifts or bequests, the income from which is distributed for educational, cultural, health, social, and civic needs. The foundation is overseen by the Board of Directors, which is composed of community leaders who serve without compensation and who have been selected for their knowledge, interest, and integrity of judgment. A part-time executive director works with the Board of Directors, and advisors provide outreach with the community, give guidance to the board, and help to develop future leadership.

For more information on upcoming grants, sponsorships, and community events, or to make a contribution to the BCF, please email Marketing@BranfordCommunityFoundation.org.