On Monday, March 2, 2026, representatives from the Lilac Club Casino presented a check for $37,144 to the City of Rochester.

Under New Hampshire’s charitable gaming model, casinos partner with approved nonprofit organizations and community entities, which receive a share of gaming revenue generated during designated operating days.

“Our partnership with the City of Rochester is rooted in shared goals and community impact,” said Eric Barbaro, Chief Operating Officer of Granite State Gaming & Hospitality. “Through charitable gaming, we’re proud to provide this contribution and look forward to continuing to support initiatives that enhance the quality of life across the City of Rochester.”

Since opening in March 2025, Lilac Club Casino has contributed more than $3.3 million to local charitable organizations. According to staff, GSGH takes a thoughtful approach to selecting charity partners by maintaining a dedicated Charity Selection Committee that meets regularly to review applications, discuss community needs, and thoughtfully build out the charitable calendar. This process helps ensure fairness, transparency, and the meaningful distribution of opportunities among qualified nonprofit organizations.

City Council voted to create a non-lapsing multi-year special revenue fund to hold and manage these revenues. Council will deliberate and determine all future appropriations out of the fund, either during the annual budget process or through supplemental appropriations.

Photo (left to right): Mayor Chuck Grassie, City Manager Katie Ambrose, and Eric Barbaro, Chief Operating Officer, Lilac Club Casino.