News
December 12, 2018Watkins Glen International RACE Foundation donates $4,000 to Watkins Glen Central School District
Watkins Glen International’s non-profit RACE Foundation announced that it is donating $4,000 to the Watkins Glen Central School District to help pay off balances of school lunches for students.
As of November 30, 2018, both the Elementary and High School had a combined rate of 50.5% students with free or reduced meal status, more than half meet the national guidelines for subsidized meals at school. The district currently has a total of 196 students, representing 161 families, who have negative meal balances. The total among both schools is $3,745.50 in outstanding charges.
“When people need help, it is up to those with the resources to lend a hand, especially in our own community,” said Watkins Glen International President Michael Printup. “The generous donation from our fans came through once again. We’re pleased to help and now the students of Watkins Glen Central School District will be provided with a healthy meal.”
In order to take advantage of subsidized meals at school a family must complete paperwork and some families do not take advantage of this program even though they are eligible. The District estimates that the free-reduced lunch rate would be 5-10% higher based on poverty rate and employment information in Schuyler County.
“The most important thing we can do to prepare children for learning is to ensure their health and safety. Hungry children cannot concentrate, and children should never have to feel anxious not knowing where their next meal will come from,” WGCSD Superintendent Greg Kelahan said. “I appreciate that WGI is committed to the health of this community. Rather than having to utilize funds to pay off these accounts, the district may continue to focus funds on instruction and learning.”
The mission of RACE (Racing and Community Enrichment) is to meet the needs of local underserved populations with a focus on youth-oriented support. The foundation uses the backing of a close-knit community to foster meaningful fundraising efforts, while leaning on support from the international racing family. For more information, visit www.theglen.com/RACE.
