Nashua nonprofits receive grants from speedway

LOUDON – Two Nashua nonprofit organizations received grants on Dec. 11 from the New Hampshire Motor Speedway and the New Hampshire chapter of the Speedway Children’s Charities. The groups donated $169,710 to 44 nonprofit organizations as part of their third annual grant distribution presentation at Manchester City Hall. “To have the opportunity to make a difference – no matter how big or small – for these programs certainly makes a day like today so worthwhile,” said Cheryl LaPrade, director of the New Hampshire chapter of SCC. “We’re happy to help you fulfill the things you do to help kids.” The Children’s Dyslexia Centers and the Lil’ Iguana Children’s Safety Foundation, both based in Nashua, were among the recipients. Representatives from nearly all of the 44 organizations were on hand to receive checks from Jerry Gappens, executive vice president and general manager of the speedway. The funds will provide assistance to more than 49,000 underprivileged children. Since its inception in 2009, the SCC and NHMS have raised more than $450,000, which has supported the needs of more than 88,000 children. “It’s the time of year where everyone wants to help out, and this year I’m very pleased with the effort that was put forth to raise nearly $170,000 for children-related causes in and around New Hampshire, up into Maine and, of course, into Massachusetts,” Gappens said. “The race fans were very generous this year, coming to our events and contributing.