On the 1st August, Andrew Clure and Scott Cicciari - the founders of Sandy Hook Arcade Center - announced via Facebook that they will close their doors at the end of the month.
The center was opened back in February as a way to bring parents and children together following the horrific mass shooting at the Sandy Hook Elementary School.
The range of games available included stand-up cabinets, air hockey tables and pinball games and the aim was to help heal a community shaken to its core by tragedy.
The center was only supposed to be open for three months, but has lasted a triumphant seven months with the support of donations and admission fees from out-of-town visitors (as Newtown residents could play for free).
"It is with tremendous sadness that we are announcing the closing of the SHAC on Saturday, August 31. What an amazing experience it has been for us to meet you all. Thank you for playing the games, volunteering your time, making generous donations and having fun with us. Your smiles, laughter and gracious words meant the world to us," its founders announced in Thursdays statement.
Kind words of appreciation and thanks have been coming in since the announcement, and the impact of the Sandy Hook Arcade Center will be remembered fondly for years to come. During this final month of operation all games will be free to play for all visitors.
News via
Escapist Magazine.
