New London ― The Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut has announced the awarding of $2.2 million in grants.

The assistance addresses inequities in early childhood care and education; youth development and empowerment; access to affordable, safe and inclusive housing; access to high-quality and affordable health care; women’s and girls’ empowerment; and environmental resilience.

In particular, demand for programs that address housing and food insecurity continued to increase this year, the foundation said, with a $25,000 grant to the New London Community Meal Center serving as an example.

Other highlights of the 2023 funding disbursement include $20,000 to the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters for the Eastern Connecticut Environmental Justice Mobilization to engage and educate on environmental issues; $18,000 to Expressiones Cultural Center for ArtVenture, a bilingual program that combines social justice and art for youth; and $12,000 to Discovering Amistad for Amistad Youth Voices for Change to engage Norwich high school students in a leadership program.

The foundation serves 42 towns and comprises more than 600 charitable funds. It has awarded $90 million in grants and scholarships to nonprofits and students since its founding in 1983.