Every Branford student deserves the opportunity to fully participate in school without financial barriers.

The Branford Education Fund provides lasting financial support for Branford Public School students and families facing financial hardship by ensuring access to meals and, over time, expanding support for extracurricular activities and educational opportunities.

The Branford Education Fund was conceived in 2025 as a partnership between the Branford Community Foundation and Branford Public Schools to provide a lasting source of support for Branford Public School students and their families facing financial hardship. Initially, the Fund will help cover the cost of school meals. As it grows, it will expand to address other financial barriers to participation—such as fees for music programs, athletics, field trips, and other activities that require out-of-pocket expenses. The goal is to ensure that all students have equitable access to the full educational experience, regardless of their financial circumstances.

As reference, 24.2% of Branford students are eligible to participate in federal free and reduced lunch. In Connecticut, a family of four earning $40,560 or under qualifies for free lunch, and a family of four making under $61,000 qualifies for reduced price meals.