Join Grace & Haven and Cinder + Salt for a Connecticut shoreline beach cleanup followed by a community celebration benefiting Save the Sound.
If you're looking for a meaningful way to spend a summer Sunday in Connecticut, we'd love to have you join us.
Our monthly Giving with Grace initiative is all about bringing people together, supporting organizations making a difference, and creating opportunities to give back to the communities we love.
This month, we're partnering with Cinder + Saltâa Connecticut brand known for turning art into impact through sustainable apparel and environmental stewardshipâto host a community beach cleanup at Hammonasset Beach State Park, followed by an after party at Grace & Haven in Essex. Throughout the event, 20% of all Grace & Haven salesâboth in-store and onlineâwill be donated to Save the Sound, helping protect the Long Island Sound for generations to come.
Event Details
Beach Cleanup
Sunday, July 19
8:30 AM â 10:30 AM
Hammonasset Beach State Park
1288 Boston Post Road
Madison, CT 06443
When you arrive
- Follow signs for Middle Beach
- Park in the Middle Beach parking lot
- Check in at the Cinder + Salt table located at the bottom of the beach access ramp
- We'll provide cleanup supplies and you'll be ready to head out and help keep Connecticut's shoreline beautiful.
What to Wear
- Comfortable sneakers or walking shoes
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Sunscreen
- Water
- A smile (yes... we know it's cheesy, but it's true.)
The cleanup is rain or shine, except in cases of severe weather.
After Party at Grace & Haven
11:00 AM â 1:00 PM
Grace & Haven
23 Main Street
Essex, CT 06426
After the cleanup, head to historic downtown Essex for a relaxed celebration with our community.
Enjoy:
- Light bites
- Refreshments
- Shopping our newest collections
- Time to connect with other families and neighbors who care about protecting Connecticut's coastline
20% of every purchase made during the eventâboth in-store and onlineâwill be donated to Save the Sound.
Can't make it to Essex? You can still shop online during the event and your purchase will help support the same cause.
Why We're Partnering with Cinder + Salt
One of the things we admire most about Cinder + Salt is that their mission extends far beyond creating beautiful apparel.
Founded in Connecticut, Cinder + Salt believes that businesses can be a force for good by creating products that inspire people to care for the planet while supporting meaningful environmental initiatives and community events. Beach cleanups have long been part of their story, making this collaboration feel like a natural fit.
At Grace & Haven, we believe the best businesses don't just serve their customersâthey strengthen their communities.
That's exactly what Giving with Grace is all about.
Shop Our Favorite Cinder + Salt Tees
We're especially excited to now carry a selection of Cinder + Salt apparel in the shop.
One unexpected favorite this summer?
The Great White Shark Toddler Tee.
It has quickly become one of the most-loved shirts among little adventurers visiting Grace & Haven. If you've got a shark-obsessed toddler (or know one), you'll definitely want to grab one while you're here.
We're also loving the Sailor's Knots Tee, inspired by New England's coastal lifestyle and perfect for summer on the Connecticut shoreline.
Both styles will be available during the eventâand remember, every purchase during Giving with Grace helps support Save the Sound.
About Save the Sound
Healthy beaches don't happen by accident.
Save the Sound works throughout Connecticut and New York to protect and restore the Long Island Sound through environmental advocacy, clean water initiatives, habitat restoration, and community engagement.
Every purchase made during our Giving with Grace event helps support this important work and contributes to healthier beaches, cleaner water, and a stronger future for our shoreline communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the beach cleanup free?
Yes! The beach cleanup is free to attend. We simply ask that you register in advance so organizers know how many volunteers to expect.
Do I need to bring cleanup supplies?
No. Cleanup materials will be provided when you check in at the Cinder + Salt table.
Is this event family friendly?
Absolutely. Families, children, and individuals of all ages are welcome.
What happens if it rains?
The event will take place rain or shine unless severe weather makes it unsafe.
Can I support the fundraiser if I can't attend?
Yes! Shop online during the event hours and 20% of your purchase will still benefit Save the Sound.
Register Today
Whether you spend the morning helping clean one of Connecticut's most beautiful beaches, stop by the after party in Essex, or simply shop online to support the cause, we'd love to have you be part of Giving with Grace.
Register for the beach cleanup here:
Reserve Your Spot on Eventbrite
We can't wait to spend the day with youâcelebrating community, protecting our shoreline, and proving that small acts of kindness really do make a big impact.
