EAST TEXAS - T.L.L Temple Foundation, based out of Lufkin, Texas, has committed to providing $80,000 in funding for Special Olympics Texas (SOTX) programs and initiatives in 2023. The funds will support SOTX sports competitions, events, and health programs such as Healthy Athletes and Healthy LEAP. This general operating support will help serve athletes through the development of competitions and fundraisers in Area 7, including Anderson, Angelina, Cherokee, and Gregg counties.

T.L.L Temple Foundation “works alongside rural communities to build a thriving East Texas and to alleviate poverty, creating access and opportunities for all.” The organization aims to strengthen East Texas by funding education, health, arts and culture, and human services programs while supporting the growth of economic opportunities. "The foundation has been proudly supporting East Texas athletes in Special Olympics since 1986,” says Temple Foundation President and CEO Wynn Rosser.

T.L.L Temple Foundation will help to support the movement toward inclusion through the general funding of SOTX activities throughout East Texas. Both organizations hope to strengthen athletes’ sports experiences by developing new health strategies and competitive sports opportunities.