Submitted by Lucas Fumiatti, Essex Bank
(May 14, 2026) — As part of the 31st Annual Community Investment Program (CIP) Ballot, participating 501(c)(3)’s were awarded a share of the $120,000 allocation based on an Essex Bank customer vote conducted during the month of February, 2026.
Established in 1996, the Community Investment Program has distributed more than $6.5 million to local charities. The ballot portion accounts for more than $2 million of that total, serving as an avenue for the Bank’s customers to participate in its charitable outreach efforts. This year, The Shoreline Soup Kitchen and Pantries received the most votes, entitling the
organization to $8,640. The Estuary and Forgotten Felines followed with $5,581 and $5,114 contributions, respectively.
“It’s an honor and a privilege to continue this tradition in its 31st year,” commented Diane Arnold, President and CEO of Essex Bank. “These contributions to such deserving nonprofits, coupled with the help and heart of so many volunteers who donate their time and energy, serve to make our community a better place.”
The following is a list of the top 10 contributions from this year’s ballot:
The Shoreline Soup Kitchens and Pantries $ 8,640.00
The Estuary, Inc. $ 5,581.00
Forgotten Felines, Inc. $ 5,114.00
High Hopes Therapeutic Riding, Inc. $ 4,250.00
Bikes for Kids $ 4,086.00
Essex Fire Engine Co. No. 1 $ 2,919.00
Ivoryton Playhouse $ 2,919.00
Essex Ambulance Association, Inc. $ 2,755.00
Vernon A. Tait All-Animal Adoption, Preservation, and Rescue Fund, Inc. (TEAM) $ 2,545.00
Lyme Ambulance Association $ 2,522.00
