Waterford — Twenty-two nonprofit organizations will receive $87,106 in grants from the Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut Foundation.

The grants, announced today during a press conference at the chamber’s offices, range from $1,000 to $20,000.

“Thanks to the continuing generosity of the people and businesses in eastern Connecticut, we have been able to exceed what we did last year,” Louis Ziegler, chairman of the foundation’s board, said. “With the grants we are announcing today we will be helping a wide range of organizations whose missions touch the lives of children.”

Ziegler headed a committee that reviewed applications submitted by 37 organizations.  The funds were raised during the foundation’s annual Holiday Gala held in December at Mohegan Sun.

Tony Sheridan, president and chief executive officer of the chamber,  said the annual effort is an indication of the region’s willingness to help children.

“There are a lot of things that are important in life, but it is hard to top the importance of helping children,” he said.

The grant recipients are: Tommy Toy Fund, $20,000; Big Brothers Big Sisters, $1,000; CareNet Pregnancy Resource Center, $2,500; CT Adoption & Family Services, $5,000; CT Parent Advocacy Center, $1,800; EWIB, $5,000; FRESH New London,$5,000; Gemma Moran United Way, $5,000; and High Hopes Therapeutic Riding, $5,000; and Madonna Place, $2,000.

Also, Mystic Area Shelter & Hospitality, $5,000; New London Community Orchestra, $2,000; Norwich Rotary Foundation,$1,000; Norwich Safety Net Team, $1,000; Riverfront Children’s Center, $2,381; S.T.E.P.S., $2,500; St. Vincent de Paul Place, $4,000; Thames River Family Program, $4,000; TVCCA, $3,000; UCFS,$2,000; Waterford Country School, $5,000; and ECHO Cancer Foundation, $2,925.