Casino developer grant to Square One

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - A Square One pre-school was destroyed by the Springfield gas explosion.

On Thursday, they'll get a gift to help them rebuild.

It's been a rough two years for the Square One organization.

One of their buildings was destroyed in the gas explosion. In 2011, their building on Main Street was leveled by the tornado.

Square One is a non-profit organization that works to educate kids through centers in Springfield and Holyoke.

Hopeful casino developer Penn National Gaming and development partner Peter Picknelly will give them a check.

Penn National wants to build an $807 million dollar Hollywood themed casino on more than 13 acres of property in the North End, some of which is owned by Peter Picknelly.

It's not the first time a casino developer has dropped money in Springfield.

MGM has given money to the South End Community Center and donated thousands more to the Spirit of Springfield organization.

As for Square One, they'll have to rebuild. CEO Joan Kagan says this grant money will go a long way.

The check presentation is scheduled for 10:00AM.

A double-decker bus with Santa onboard will transport the check to Square One's Early Education Center on King Street in Springfield.

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