STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — The Lois & Richard Nicotra Foundation awarded more than $12,000 to 12 Staten Island organizations whose mission it is to make life better for Island residents.
The foundation hosted its awards ceremony Thursday morning in the Commons Cafe, Bloomfield. The organization’s namesakes were on hand to present the grant checks to representatives of the selected charities.
In addition, grants and scholarships were awarded to the Nicotras’ employees.
“It’s important for us to continue the philanthropic efforts of our Foundation,” said Richard Nicotra. “We supported our neighbors post-Sandy and will continue to do so. At the same time, Staten Island nonprofits need funding and our employees’ children need to continue their studies.
“We’re entering our third year of funding, and when we receive reports back or attend programs that have been achieved with the help of the Foundation’s support, well that is among the most gratifying experiences Lois and I have had.”
Recipients like Massimo DiDonna, co-founder of the Carl V. Bini Memorial Fund were pleased with the grants.
“I am totally honored the Nicotra Fund gave us a grant. Lois and Richard are phenomenal Staten Islanders and phenomenal people and businessowners on the Island, and the fact they awarded something to us means so much to us. That is what Staten Island is all about,” he said.