The Fund for Women and Girls
Even though females make up more than half of the population, only seven cents out of each charitable dollar go to programs that solely benefit women and girls.
Except for the Fund for Women and Girls.
Established in 1998 by women for women, the Fund for Women and Girls is a permanent Field of Interest fund of the Fairfield County Community Foundation. Thanks to the generosity of individuals, families, companies and private foundations, it has become the largest woman's fund in New England.
Since the Fund's establishment, it has awarded $1.9 million in grants to Fairfield County nonprofits that address the unique needs of women and girls.
Focusing on Economic Security
The Fund for Women and Girls published the first research study on the status of women and girls in Fairfield County, titled " Holding Up Half the Sky." Our research confirmed what was expected — that many women and girls in Fairfield County enjoy exceptional achievement, affluence and security. Yet we also found what we feared — too many women are living at the poverty level because of limited education, low-paying jobs and the high cost of child care.
After a decade of investing grants in programs that help women move into safe, affordable housing and help girls cultivate confidence and life skills, we’re intensifying the Fund’s focus to help low-wage women achieve economic security.
Our investments and collaborations aim to create long-term social change to:
- Increase women’s earning potential by helping them get education and training to move into higher-paying jobs.
- Prepare adolescent girls for their futures so they are educated and trained for tomorrow’s job market, and
- Foster social change so all low-wage women in Fairfield County can achieve economic security.
The Fund for Women and Girls recently embarked on an initiative with Norwalk Community College and the Norwalk Community College Foundation on a bold plan that became the Family Economic Security Program.
Over five years, the Family Economic Security Program will provide 100 qualified students at Norwalk Community College with the personal, financial and career coaching they need to earn an Associate’s degree, a Bachelor’s degree and enter careers that allow them to support themselves and their families.
How you can help
You can make a tax deductible, online contribution to the Fund for Women and Girls.
To make a contribution by mail or fax, or for more information, email Suzanne Brown Peters, Director of the Fund for Women and Girls, or call her at 203.750.3208. | 
