Submitted by Lucas Fumiatti
(August 18, 2026) — Essex Bank has awarded two $1,851 pop-up grants during the month of August to the Women & Family Life Center of Guilford and to HOPE Partnership as part of a yearlong effort to give back to the community during its 175th anniversary.
The grant to the Women & Family Life Center (photo above) was presented on August 6, 2026 in recognition of the exact date Essex Bank first opened its doors 175 years ago. This special anniversary donation reflects the Bank’s continued commitment to strengthening local support systems and helping residents build long-term stability. The Women & Family Life Center of Guilford helps those facing major life challenges, including divorce, domestic abuse, or housing loss. Through its Guided Assistance Program (GAP) and Achieve career coaching, personalized support and resources are provided free of charge to residents across fifteen shoreline towns.
HOPE Partnership (photo above) is dedicated to addressing the shortage of affordable workforce housing along the shoreline. By collaborating with town governments, builders and private partners, HOPE facilitates the creation of attractive, sustainable housing solutions that fit perfectly into local neighborhoods and empower low-to-moderate-income families.
“We are proud to support the Women & Family Life Center and HOPE Partnership for the essential resources and services they provide to those in need,” said Lynn Giroux, President and CEO of Essex Bank. “Our 175th anniversary is not only a celebration of Essex Bank’s history, but also a reaffirmation of our commitment to strengthening the communities we serve.” Essex Bank will continue its monthly pop-up grants with nonprofit donations throughout the remainder of 2026.
Essex Bank has been a leading provider of financial services since 1851. Featuring six Bank branch locations, Essex Trust, and wholly owned subsidiary Essex Financial, Essex Bank empowers customers throughout the Connecticut Shoreline and River Valley. Essex Bank prides itself on safe banking practices, personalized service and deep community investment. It was the first bank in the State of Connecticut to share profits with the community it serves, and each year, through its Community Investment Program, Essex Bank donates up to 10% of its after-tax net income to non-profit organizations and community development projects. The Bank also has won numerous awards for its team and expertise, including Best of the Shoreline, and is rated by Bauer Financial as a 5-Star institution. For more information, please visit www.essex.bank. Member FDIC – Equal Housing Lender.
Photos provided by Essex Bank
