Valero, through its Paulsboro, N.J. refinery, has donated $50,000 to the local Paulsboro High School during the company’s annual “Report to the Community.” The donation comes in recognition of the oil company’s 90 years of success and fellowship in the community, according to Gloucester (N.J.) County Times.
“It has been a real pleasure to watch this partnership build,” said Mayor John Burzichelli, who made the surprised announcement to the town.
The funds are going be used to help Paulsboro triple the size of its football stadium facilities, adding extra seating for fans as well as aisles for handicapped access. Construction will begin Monday and should be completed by Oct. 13, the school’s next home game.
The presentation to Paulsboro High School was one of many during Valero’s annual luncheon. Along with the donation to the school, a mutual aid grant of $5,000 was presented to both the nearby Gibbstown Volunteer Fire Department and the Paulsboro Fire Department.
Four Valero employees were recognized for their volunteer efforts in the community and each received a $500 grant. Charles Capanna would use the funds to help the Pitman Food Pantry; Barry Davis for Peter’s Pantry in Elmer; Rich Roat for the Spring City Boy Scouts; and Harold Schweitzer for the Marshallton UMC Youth Group.
In addition to its help to the high school and local businesses, Valero is a partner with the United Way of Gloucester County, raising $700,000 in 2006 with similar results expected for 2007.
“Our employees are 100% behind that effort,” said Claire Riggs, public affairs manager.