HAGERSTOWN, MD (August 8, 2023) – The Washington County Gaming Commission announced its gaming fund distribution to the Washington County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association, as well as 56 local charitable organizations.

The Gaming Fund total of $2,543,030.34 for fiscal year 2023, which ended June 30, represents a decrease of $47,982.59 when compared to fiscal year 2022 revenues.

State law requires funds be divided equally between the Washington County Fire and Rescue Association and local charities, and in January the Washington County Fire and Rescue Association received $580,035.42. As of today, an additional $691,479.75 will be distributed, bringing the yearly total for Fire and Rescue to $1,271,515.17.

In May, the Washington County Gaming Commission received 85 separate applications from 73 charitable organizations requesting a total of $2,992,551.51. After hosting a gaming hearing in June, and a one-day workshop in July, the Commission was able to either partially or fully fund 63 of the 85 requests. Of the 85 applications received, 29 received full funding, 33 received partial funding, and 23 were denied funding. A total of $1,271,515.17 of 2023 gaming funds were allocated to 56 of the 73 charitable organizations applying.

The Community Free Clinic received the largest award of $170,000 followed by The Salvation Army receiving $105,000 and R.E.A.C.H of Washington County receiving $100,000.