What the Thomas J. Atkins Memorial Trust Fund Supports in Connecticut

There are a number of funders focused exclusively on the state of Connecticut, including the Thomas J. Atkins Memorial Trust Fund. Bank of America Philanthropic Services manages this grantmaker and provides a straightforward way for local nonprofits to connect with it and apply for funding.

Here are some top things to know about the Thomas J. Atkins Memorial Trust Fund and the types of organizations it supports in Connecticut.

Three topics of interest

This foundation has broad interests and has supported educational, healthcare and human services programming for underserved populations since 1946. It prefers organizations and programs that help relieve human suffering and distress. The foundation typically gravitates toward food pantries and emergency services, but it is also interested in art programs and mindful learning for children.

A focus on Middlesex County

The Atkins Memorial Trust Fund maintains a very local focus within Connecticut. That includes organizations serving people in Middlesex County, Connecticut, which includes the towns of Essex, Chester, Cromwell and East Hampton. Recent grantees are based in New Haven, Hartford and Old Saybrook. However, the primary city for Atkins funding is Middletown.

Typical Atkins funding

The Atkins Memorial Trust Fund awards grants for one year in duration. Most Atkins grants are $5,000 each, and the typical grant range is $2,000 to $15,000. Recent grantees include Middletown Public Schools, St. Luke’s Home, Habitat for Humanity of Northern Middlesex and Odd Fellows Playhouse. The foundation is known for supporting the same familiar organizations year after year rather than spreading grants around to new groups in the area. According to Candid data, the foundation has awarded at least 181 grants to 46 recipients, totaling $806,523.

Applying for a grant

Grantseekers in Connecticut will enjoy a straightforward application process with this funder because it’s conducted through Bank of America’s online grant system. The annual grant deadline is October 1, and the foundation notifies applicants of its grant decisions by letter within two to three months. Bank of America’s Connecticut office is available for questions via email about the application process.

Learn more about this funder and others that give locally in Connecticut by checking out IP’s Connecticut funding guide.

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