Basic Needs Fund
Established in May 2020, the Basic Needs Fund (BNF) supports organizations that provide people living in poverty and distress with material basic needs such as food, temporary shelter, heat, personal safety, urgent health-care needs and hygiene products – with a special emphasis on needs that are not adequately addressed by existing government funding programs. The BNF is an extension of the work started in 2019 by an informal group of Foundation donors and leading local philanthropists. As the unprecedentedly high demand for basic needs services continues in our community due to the pandemic, we expect the BNF to make an important contribution to addressing the long-term impact of COVID-19.
Black Futures Fund
The purpose of the Black Futures Fund is to advance racial equity in Greater New Haven and to tackle the structures that contribute to racial disparities in our community. The events of 2020 have underscored and revealed the depths of these challenges and the need for a sustained commitment to prioritizing racial equity. The Fund will support Black-led organizations and the promotion of Black leadership and grassroots advocacy, including emerging voices, ideas and collaborations on the front lines of challenging historical and cultural attitudes.
Civic Engagement and Awareness Fund
Encouraging widespread resident engagement in our civic and public life is essential to building a more connected, cohesive community. With that goal in mind, the Civic Engagement and Awareness Fund will support the many people and organizations who work every day to advance civic awareness and engagement in our region, including nonprofit journalism; civics education; grass-roots efforts to promote civic engagement at the neighborhood level; and promoting civic values through cultural activities, convenings and other community gatherings and activities.
In addition to these new Funds listed above, The Community Foundation has been working to advance opportunity and equity throughout Greater New Haven through the Community Fund for Women and Girls, the Progreso Latino Fund and the Community Now Fund.
