from Saratoga Casino and Raceway

Saratoga Springs, NY — Saratoga Casino and Raceway donated $3,000 to Franklin Community Center in support of their Food Pantry Capital Campaign. The donation was a match of funds previously raised by the Saratoga Harness Horseperson’s Association at the end of the 2014 racing season.

Saratoga Casino and Raceway has contributed more than $10,000 to Franklin Community Center’s Food Pantry since last December.

Beginning as a small backdoor rack in 1983, Franklin Community Center’s Food Pantry has evolved into a fully functioning service area to help those undergoing financial hardship. Changes needed to be made to meet a rapidly increasing demand within the local community.

Recent renovations included adding in refrigeration and freezer capabilities, a side-door access entrance for increased client privacy and more than quadrupling storage space for food items. These critical improvements now allow Franklin Community Center’s Food Pantry to be a member of the Northeastern New York Regional Food Bank, which grants them access to purchase food items at a discounted rate.

“We have been longtime supporters of Franklin Community Center,” said Mike Vild, General Manager at Saratoga Casino and Raceway. “The tremendous work they do is extremely beneficial to our entire community and we are thrilled to be able to help them achieve their goals of improving their food pantry.”

“We would not be able to offer our services if it were not for the generous community support from organizations like Saratoga Casino and Raceway,” said Kari Cushing, Executive Director at Franklin Community Center. “These donations go a long way and help those in our community who need it most.”

Open year round, Franklin Community Center’s Food Pantry is located at their office on 10 Franklin St. in Saratoga Springs. Non-perishable food items are always accepted. For more information on the Food Pantry or to make a donation, click here.