(Milford, NH) – Staying true to its focus of assisting children and families in need across the state, The Finlay Foundation today announced a grant of $24,099 to Manchester’s Webster House to purchase a new 15-passenger Ford activity van for its students.

The award goes to an organization, in Webster House, that in 2009 marked 125 years serving children, ages 8-18, through some of their most difficult times – from abuse and neglect to separated families and discipline issues. The goal has always been two-fold: to provide a caring, stable setting for kids to receive critical life skills, and to also teach how to give back to the community. The center houses roughly 18 students at a time, providing independent living courses, homework help and counseling sessions, as well as an active recreation and volunteer program.

“The tireless work the staff at Webster House performs each day on behalf of children and families in difficulty across the city could not be more important, deeper reaching, or more appreciated,” Finlay Foundation President Karin Finlay said. “We are pleased to assist them with a pressing need and to help give these students access to some incredible educational and recreational opportunities.”

The donation, which will purchase a 2009 Econoline van from Manchester’s Autofair Ford, comes from a foundation that last year awarded nearly $300,000 to Granite State nonprofits focused on improving the quality of life for children and families. The Finlay Foundation was created by businessman Robert J. Finlay and his wife Karin to offer future generations opportunities to succeed and to spark a renewed commitment statewide to cultural, civic and community involvement.

“The Finlay Foundation came through in a very big way,” Webster House Director Lou Catano said. “We are blessed to receive the 2009 Ford van and we are greatly appreciative of their support that will be measured in many miles and smiles down the road.”