AUSTIN – Special Olympics Texas (SOTX) has received a $40,000 grant from Newman’s Own Foundation, the independent foundation created by the late actor and philanthropist Paul Newman. 

The grant funds will aid SOTX with general operation expenses. SOTX provides year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for more than 58,300 children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. 

The contribution made by Newman’s Own Foundation meets sponsorship qualifying standards set forth by the H-E-B Tournament of Champions, an annual golf tournament held for the grocery company’s suppliers, which benefits SOTX. 

“We are extremely grateful for the support and generosity of the Newman’s Own Foundation and the H-E-B Tournament of Champions,” said Dr. Richard Brown, SOTX Vice President for Resource Development. “These funds will literally help SOTX change lives for hundreds of athletes and their families across the state of Texas.”

For SOTX to put on a full year’s worth of programs, trainings and other services, it costs the organization $150 per athlete annually. The funds provided by Newman’s Own Foundation will cover SOTX’s cost for more than 266 participants across the state. 

Newman’s Own Foundation turns all net profits and royalties from the sale of Newman’s Own products into charitable donations. To date, Paul Newman and Newman’s Own Foundation have given over $485 million to thousands of charities around the world.