Stories from the Microfund

SUMMER 2026

At 85 years old, I live on a fixed income from Social Security, so I have to watch every dollar I spend. I own my home, and while I am grateful for it, maintaining an older house can be expensive. In addition, I care for my ill spouse, making it even more important that our home remains safe and comfortable.

During my annual furnace service, the heating company informed me that my boiler had reached the end of its useful life and would not make it through another winter. It needed to be replaced immediately, at a cost of approximately $7,000.

The estimate left me worried. I had some money set aside for unexpected home repairs, but I was several thousand dollars short. Living on a fixed income, I simply did not know how I was going to come up with the remaining money before the cold weather arrived.

While discussing my situation with a member of the Branford Rotary Club, they suggested that I contact the Branford Microfund. Until then, I had no idea that such a wonderful program existed to help Branford residents facing financial emergencies like mine.

After speaking with a loan representative from the Branford Microfund, they approved a loan for $3,000 to help replace my heating system. Their assistance came at exactly the right time and made all the difference.

Because of the Branford Microfund, my family was able to stay warm and safe throughout a very cold winter. Without them, I would not have been able to replace my boiler when it was needed most.

I am deeply grateful for the Branford Microfund and the caring people who make this program possible. Their willingness to help residents during difficult times provides more than financial assistance—it provides peace of mind, security, and hope when it is needed most.

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