In the News

American Savings Foundation Invests in New Britain Youth Through Grant Awards

June 23, 2026

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New Britain, CT - The American Savings Foundation Board of Directors recently announced $182,600 in grants to a broad range of programs that support New Britain youth, providing academic enrichment, opportunities in the arts, and social-emotional wellbeing. 

“These programs support all ages of youth, from young children and their families to high school age students.  said Maria Falvo, President and CEO of American Savings Foundation. “These grants support programs that help New Britain youth build confidence, develop critical skills, and reach their full potential. We are proud to partner with organizations that make a lasting difference in the lives of young people and their families.”

The Foundation announced the following grants to programs that support New Britain youth:

$17,600 to Connecticut Virtuosi Chamber Orchestra to expand its in-school music education programming, bringing professional musicians into local schools to introduce students to classical music.  Programs include interactive performances, hands-on learning experiences, and an introduction to orchestral instruments and music history.

$10,000 to Fostering Family Hope to update family visiting rooms in New Britain Department of Children and Families facilities, creating welcoming, child-friendly spaces.  These more comfortable and welcoming areas help strengthen family connections, reduce stress during visits, and support positive interactions between children and families.

$50,000 to HRA of New Britain to support its youth financial literacy program, which equips high school students with practical money management skills and training opportunities.  Students can train to become certified tax preparers and earn internships working with HRA’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program.

$35,000 to Junior Achievement of Southwest New England to support its JA Mindset program, which helps high school students develop entrepreneurial thinking, career readiness skills, and a deeper understanding of business planning, problem-solving, and economic opportunity.

$40,000 to the New Britain Museum of American Art to support arts education and community outreach programs that engage students, families, and educators through school visits, hands-on art experiences, community programs, and expanded access to the museum's collections and educational resources.

$20,000 to the Queen Ann Nzinga Center to support its youth development program, which integrates social-emotional learning with arts enrichment, cultural education, mentorship, and performance opportunities for youth of all abilities.

$5,000 to the Meriden–New Britain–Berlin YMCA will support its STEM Academy, which engages students through hands-on science, technology, engineering, and math activities, including engineering challenges, robotics, coding experiences, NASA-themed learning opportunities, and family STEM nights. An additional $5,000 was also awarded to support their Youth Safety Program, providing New Britain students with babysitting, CPR, First Aid, and safe childcare practices.