The Norwalk River Valley Trail (NRVT) has received $20,000 in grants from Newman’s Own Foundation, the independent foundation created by the late actor and philanthropist, Paul Newman.
The NRVT is a multi-use trail with a vision of extending for 30 miles, connecting Calf Pasture Beach in Norwalk through Wilton, Ridgefield and Redding and terminating at Rogers Park in Danbury. The NRVT will be a 10 foot wide, handicap-accessible trail creating recreation opportunities for walkers, hikers, cyclists, kids and pets. The NRVT will offer a healthy transportation alternative to access rail stations, schools, offices, and businesses. To date, eight miles of trail have been completed in Norwalk and Wilton.
Patricia Sesto, President of the Friends of the NRVT, said: “It’s very exciting for the NRVT to be recognized by Newman’s Own Foundation, a leader in philanthropy. These grants will be a big help in meeting our 20% match for the WilWalk section connecting Wilton and Norwalk, and with increased operating expenses resulting from the strong growth of the NRVT.”
Newman’s Own Foundation uses all net profits and royalties from the sale of Newman’s Own food and beverage products for charitable purposes. Since 1982, Paul Newman and Newman’s Own Foundation have donated over $540 million to thousands of charities around the world.
“Newman’s Own Foundation is pleased to support Friends of the Norwalk River Valley Trail in their efforts to extend a trail from the Norwalk Coastline to Danbury,” said Kelly Giordano, Managing Director of Newman’s Own Foundation. “It will be a great asset to the local communities, providing recreation and alternative access opportunities through the central section of Fairfield County.”