As part of a multi-week fundraising campaign, casino and racetrack operator Penn National Gaming has committed to supporting its Hollywood Casino Aurora in raising money.

Having begun last month, the fundraising drive has been created in order to support the families of the victims of the tragedy that took place on February 15, 2019, at the Henry Pratt Company, where a factory worker who had previously been fired killed five and injured at least 11 others, including six police officers.

The money raised will go towards helping the Aurora Strong Foundation and Association of Professional Police Officers. In addition to the proceeds raised by food outlets, team members, raffles, and auctions, Penn National Gaming Foundation will match all funds raised.

The Penn National Gaming foundation was established in 2005, following the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina. It currently assists 2,000 team members across three different casinos in Mississippi and Louisiana.

It continues to support communities impacted by natural and man-made disasters, such as those affected by Hurricanes Gustav and Harvey, as well as helping the victims of the Route 91 Harvest Music Festival shooting in Las Vegas.

Greg Moore, general manager of Hollywood Casino Aurora, spoke of the union felt with the city: “Hollywood Casino and our team members are proud to live and work in this great city. We stand united with the city of Aurora and its citizens, to support the families of those who lost their lives or were injured in this senseless act of violence.

“We are extremely grateful to the organisations and individuals who donated goods, services, and direct cash contributions for this extremely worthwhile cause, including our sister property Hollywood Casino Joliet.

“We look forward to raising a significant amount of money to support our community, through the Aurora Strong Foundation and Association of Professional Police Officers.”

In addition, Hollywood Casino has committed to donating proceeds from certain food and beverages establishment, in addition to sponsoring a ‘Blue Jeans for the Victims’ fundraiser, for employees to raise additional charitable dollars.