The Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut (CFECT) offers Environmental & Animal Welfare Grants to support environmental education, conservation, and animal welfare in New London County and broader Eastern Connecticut. These grants are enabled through two dedicated funds: the Peter Grayson Letz Fund for Animals and the Environment, established in 2014, and the Mary Janvrin & Natalie Janvrin Wiggins Fund for Birds, Other Animals & Nature, created in 2017. CFECT’s grantmaking integrates values of equity and social justice and prioritizes programs that advance environmental justice, systems change, and constituent engagement, particularly among communities of color.
Environmental grants are available to programs that serve any of the 42 towns in Eastern Connecticut. Applicants may request between $10,000 and $50,000. Preference is given to proposals that preserve significant natural lands, waterways, and wildlife habitats, especially those that also benefit local residents' health and quality of life. Programs engaging youth—particularly youth of color—in environmental education are strongly encouraged, as are those that promote environmental justice and equitable participation in decision-making processes.
CFECT favors collaborative efforts that are regional in scope and grounded in evidence-based, solution-oriented approaches. Programs should aim for long-term positive outcomes, especially in lower-income communities and those affected by racial inequities. Proposals must include measurable outcomes and demonstrate how they will address systemic environmental challenges.
The Foundation considers grants for existing programs, new initiatives, special projects, policy advocacy, and general operating support. Capacity-building grants and multiyear grants are also possible, but require prior discussion with the Foundation. All applicants are encouraged to contact CFECT before submitting, and first-time applicants are required to do so.
The application timeline, including specific deadlines, is not provided, suggesting a recurring cycle. The funder encourages proactive engagement and recommends initial contact with Jennifer O’Brien at 860.442.3572 or via grants@cfect.org to discuss proposal intent.
The Foundation’s main office is located at 68 Federal Street, New London, CT 06320. CFECT remains committed to strengthening the health and sustainability of its region through funding that supports both environmental conservation and animal welfare, while advancing equity and inclusion.
