Tioga Downs thanks community for generosity during high five weekend

More than 2,700 canned goods donated to those in need

Nichols, N.Y. - November 5, 2015 - At Tioga Downs, even a weekend of celebration wouldn't be complete without giving back to the community. Thanks to the generosity of its guests, Tioga Downs is donating more than 2700 canned goods to the Foodbank of the Southern Tier.

The entertainment complex broke ground last week on a major expansion in anticipation of being able to offer full casino gaming at the property. Tioga Downs is moving forward with the multi-million dollar casino project now that the New York State Gaming Facility Location Board has recommended awarding the State's final full casino gaming license to Tioga Downs.

In anticipation of the award of the full license, Tioga Downs celebrated its planned expansion as a resort destination by inviting the public to take part in special promotions. Each guest who brought two canned goods on Friday or Saturday was able to enjoy a $5 meal at the buffet.

"We are so pleased to be able to help provide canned good to those in need while allowing our patrons to join in celebrating such a significant weekend as we look towards a bright future," said owner Jeff Gural. "We can't thank the community enough for standing beside us and telling the state they supported Tioga Downs in the quest for this license."

Once full gaming revenues are generated at Tioga Downs, the casino has pledged that they will give a minimum of $1 million dollars in charitable contributions and $500,000 in small business loans annually to help those within the Southern Tier. Tioga Downs has a rich history of giving back to a variety of organizations that work to eliminate hunger, assist veterans and more.

Tioga Downs offers live harness racing, video lottery terminals, video poker and electronic roulette. A variety of eateries are also part of the current entertainment complex. Jeff Gural owns Tioga Downs in Nichols, NY and Vernon Downs in Vernon, NY. Tioga Downs is beginning the process of transforming into a full casino gaming resort to serve the Southern Tier and beyond. Tioga Downs is in the process of expanding its facility and workforce to accommodate live casino gaming. In the last decade, Tioga Downs and Vernon Downs have created more than 700 family-sustaining jobs and donated millions to nonprofit organizations. For more information on Tioga Downs, please visit www.tiogadowns.com.