Dake Foundation for Children Announces Community Grant Recipients

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Five nonprofit organizations have been selected as the inaugural recipients of the newly formed Community Grants program – the Dake Foundation for Children.

Founded by Gary Dake, President of Stewart’s Shops, the Foundation has provided grants to local children with disabilities since 2009 with a focus on inclusion, independence, and fun. In 2023, the organization announced plans to increase its impact by supporting local 501c3 nonprofit organizations seeking to make their spaces or programming more accessible and inclusive.

The Dake Foundation for Children’s Community Grants Program recipients are:

•Double H Ranch, Lake Luzerne, NY – Funding will support their Winter Adaptive Sports Program, providing winter recreation opportunities for children ages 6-16 with life-threatening and chronic illnesses.

•Southern Adirondack Independent Living (SAIL), Queensbury, NY – Funding will be used to purchase Access Trax, equipment that makes events, beaches, parks, and other outdoor venues more accessible for wheelchair users.

•Bring On The Spectrum, Albany, NY – Funding will support equipment and other necessities for their Autism Fitness Program.

•Wilton Emergency Squad, Saratoga Springs, NY – Funding will purchase “Carter’s Kits” that contain items designed to help soothe and calm children with varying communication and sensory needs during their interactions with first responders.

•Southwestern Vermont Medical Center Early Intervention, Bennington, VT – Funding will support the purchase of audiology equipment that will detect hearing loss in young children.