In 2024, The Guilford Foundation (TGF) provided $117,800 in grants to 42 nonprofits, enabling them to offer a wide range of services in areas such as mental health and wellness, supporting youth and education, and arts and culture. Highlighted here are just a few TGF grant recipients that jump in to assist community members in times of great need. Moments like these are only possible through the generosity of others and organizations like TGF.

Women and Family Life Center (W&FLC).  TGF grants allowed more than 135 Guilford residents to participate in the W&FLC Guided Assistance Program (GAP). The GAP program is available to community members free of charge and provides personalized support and referrals for individuals who are facing difficult life challenges. The positive impact on lives is immeasurable. As one GAP participant remarked: “W&FLC has been very professional and done a great job providing resources. It feels like the arms of Guilford are wrapped around me. You folks are wonderful!”

Guilford Social Services (GSS).  TGF funding was instrumental in GSS’s eff orts to make the 2024 holidays brighter for those in need.  The GSS Holiday Basket Program held two distributions (one in November for Thanksgiving and another in December) where income-verified residents could pick up a basket consisting of a protein, dessert, and a gift card. “Everyone who received a basket was very appreciative for the help during the holiday season,” noted Kristin Jones, Program Coordinator. “The baskets helped lessen the strain felt during the holidays as recipients did not have to worry about a holiday dinner.”

APK Charities.  APK Charities’ Direct Assistance Program (DAP) provides financial assistance and support to military service members and their families who need emergency or hardship assistance. When a Guilford veteran found himself in a dire situation – without electricity, heat, and water for an extended time – the TFF grant allowed APK DAP to restore the veteran’s utility service.  Helen and Bob Keiser, APK founders, fondly recall the heartfelt and tearful response when the utilities were restored at this veteran’s Guilford home.

Community Dining Room (CDR).  Together with TGF support, the Community Dining Room serves hundreds of nutritious meals to individuals facing food insecurity.  It not only provides nourishment but also allows people to connect, share stories, and realize that they are not alone in their struggles. A volunteer fondly recalls Jim, a veteran who would only sit alone, eat quickly, and leave without conversing.  Over weeks, Jim started staying longer and sharing his own stories.  One afternoon, as he was leaving, he turned to the volunteer and said, “This place reminds me that I still matter.” 

New Haven HomeOwnership Center (NH HOC). Helping families become homeowners, regardless of their income status, is NH HOC’s focus. A TGF grant supported its work with residents at the Great Hill Cottage Community in Guilford. Low and moderate-income families received assistance with subsidized housing applications and pre- and post-purchase homebuyer education and financial coaching services.  The TGF grant’s profound impact is evidenced by this excerpt from a letter to NH HOC.  “We are loving our new home and just want to send a big ‘Thank You’ for all you have done to guide and assist us in becoming owners [at Great Hill Commons.]”