PERSON OF THE WEEK: Mina West

A Hand Up: West Chairs Branford Microfund

By Pam Johnson, Senior Staff Writer, The Sound/Zip06, May 28, 2025

Mina West chairs nonprofit Branford Microfund, which provides interest-free loans of up to $3,000 to Branford neighbors encountering a one-time unexpected financial obstacle.

Have you heard about Branford Microfund? Just ask Mina West. The Branford resident is the chairperson of this very nimble, all-volunteer nonprofit, which provides a hand up to Branford neighbors in need. Through an application process, Branford Microfund provides interest-free loans of up to $3,000 to residents encountering a one-time unexpected financial obstacle.

The loans can be customized to meet individual needs — from emergencies such as unexpected medical procedures, car repairs, license or registration fees, replacement of basic home appliances, unexpected damages to households, and more. Each loan is set up to be repaid within 24 months.

Read the full article, here.