Prominent Farmington Nonprofit Announces Major Community Investments

FARMINGTON, CT — More than $140,000 raised by the Farmington Community Chest during its 2025-26 fiscal year went toward organizations and programs serving families, students, seniors, veterans, and other residents in Farmington and Unionville.

The nonprofit, which is celebrating its 95th year, said the funding supported basic needs, education and community programs.

Among the investments was $10,000 for the Farmington Food Pantry, which served approximately 270 families last year, and $20,000 for the Farmington Land Trust toward rebuilding Polly's Pier and making it accessible to more community members.

Another $7,200 went to Tunxis Veterans OASIS, which assists student-veterans transitioning from military service to civilian and academic life.

Other Farmington Community Chest funding supported:

• Summer camp scholarships for local children and direct assistance for qualifying families.
• Meals, outreach, programming, and social opportunities for seniors through HOPE Partners of Farmington and the Tunxis Senior Citizens Association.
• Art therapy and adaptive yoga for New Horizons Village residents.
• Hands-on laboratory research opportunities for Farmington High School students through the Cutting Edge Research Internship Program at UConn Health.
• Arts education programming through Arts for Learning Connecticut that reached more than 1,950 students at East Farms and West Woods schools.
• A new inclusive and adaptive recreation program launched by the Town of Farmington to expand access to recreational opportunities.

"What makes this organization special is that the money raised here stays here," Farmington Community Chest Board President Chris Andrews said. "Whether it is helping a family through a difficult time, giving a child an opportunity to attend camp, supporting a veteran or senior, or investing in programs that make our town a better place to live, our donors can see the impact of their generosity right in their own community."

Founded in 1931, the Farmington Community Chest raises money through donations from individuals and businesses, community partnerships, and fundraising events.

Looking ahead to 2027, the organization said it plans to continue supporting programs that directly benefit Farmington and Unionville residents, including additional community activities for children and families.

The Farmington Community Chest's annual donation postcard is expected to be mailed to residents in October.

The organization is also encouraging residents to determine whether their employers offer matching gift programs.

For more information on Farmington Community Chest, including donation information, click on this link.