Groton — The Chelsea Groton Foundation announced Thursday that it has approved funding $315,663 in grants to 40 nonprofits in Connecticut and Rhode Island, of which more than $243,000 is being distributed this fall.

The total amount includes $100,000 to the Norwich Community Development Corporation for Global City Norwich, which showcases multiculturalism in the city. The Chelsea Groton Foundation helped launch the initiative in the spring with an initial $100,000 grant.

The $315,663 also includes $100,000 over the next five years to the National Coast Guard Museum Association Inc.

Chelsea Groton Foundation President Michael Rauh said in a news release, "In addition to the large gifts to NCDC and the Coast Guard Museum, we are proud to report our increased giving in categories that support basic human needs — hunger, homelessness and (health care) — which continue to be critical needs in our community."

The grants include $10,000 to the Furniture Bank of Southeastern CT to purchase beds for needy families, $7,500 to Catholic Charities for emergency basic needs and $5,000 to the American Red Cross for disaster cycle services. Other grant recipients include St. Vincent de Paul Place, Salt Marsh Opera Company, North Stonington Conservation Commission, Children's Museum of Southeastern Connecticut and Martin House. A full list can be found at bit.ly/CGFgrants.

The Chelsea Groton Foundation, which awards grants twice per year, has provided more than $3.2 million since 1999.