J.G. Townsend Jr. & Co. gives $100,000 to Cape district

It's not every day that a school district receives a $100,000 gift from a developer.

But Feb. 18 was Cape Henlopen School District's lucky day.

“There's nothing more important to the community than the education of its students,” said Bryce Lingo, chairman of J.G. Townsend Jr. & Co., after the official announcement of the gift.

Superintendent Robert Fulton thanked the Lingo family for the gift and for all they do for the district.

“They help each year with field trips and give several thousands to the educational foundation,” he said. “They are extremely supportive of Cape, and it's great to have a community that is so supportive.”

Fulton said the district and school board will decide how the money will be spent. There are no strings attached, so the money could go to anything, Fulton said.

“We'll take time to discuss and decide on the best way to spend the money,” he said.

Bryce Lingo said there was nothing specific he envisioned the money should be spent on, but he was certain it would be put to good use.

“I'm sure it'll go wherever it's most needed,” he said, adding the donation is part of the company's mission to give where you live.

In 2014, the district purchased a 25-acre parcel on Route 24 from J.G. Townsend for $1.75 million to build a new elementary school that is currently under construction. The decision to gift $100,000 to the district was made by company principals to give back to the district, according to a press release handed out during the event in Cape High's rotunda.

“We are fortunate to have such a supportive family and company as part of our Cape community, Fulton said.