By Michael Sweeney for Scarborough Downs

Scarborough, ME — The harness racing industry will once again come together on Saturday (July 26) in support of the local community as the 3rd annual Maine Harness Racing Gives Back Day is showcased at Scarborough Downs.

Three local charities have been selected to benefit from this day of recognition and they will receive gifts contributed to by driver donations from members of the Maine Amateur Drivers Club, the Maine Harness Horseman’s Association and the proceeds from a 50/50 drawing and various other raffles.

The Scarborough Food Pantry has been designated as one of the featured charities. The pantry provides supplemental grocery items to roughly 200 families per month chiefly from donations received from the Scarborough Community and federal distributions.

The Arthur B. Huot House will also benefit from the proceeds of the day. Located in Saco, Maine, this organization is a veteran service provided by Volunteers of America and maintains 10 efficiency apartments for veterans who are homeless and assists in transitioning veterans back into the community.

The third charity is the Maine Standardbred Welfare Fund. Their goal is to provide temporary financial support to registered Standardbreds that are in need while assisting in the rehabilitation and placement of the horse in a secure and healthy environment.

Representatives of all three charities will be staffing booths at Scarborough Downs during the races on Saturday. First post time for Saturday’s harness racing card is 4:30 PM (EDT).