Seven nonprofits in the Tampa, Florida, region have been awarded gifts totaling $63 million from David Baldwin, who passed away in 2021 at the age of 96, WFLA News Channel 8 reports.

The gifts, which were a surprise to the organizations, were awarded through Baldwin's estate. Recipients include Academy Prep Center of St. Petersburg, a nonprofit middle school, which was awarded $9.5 million; Metropolitan Ministries; R’Club Child Care; and the St. Pete Free Clinic.

“We received word shortly after his passing that we had been included in his estate. We were deeply touched and very grateful, but [we] had no idea the size of the gift that he had left for us, no idea,” said Academy Prep Center of St. Petersburg development director Lacey Miller. “We knew that he had substantial means, we had no idea just quite to the degree. This was beyond our wildest dreams and expectation. Ten thousand dollars would have been wonderful; $9.5 million was beyond comprehension.”

“Mr. Baldwin’s donations over the years were always received with heartfelt thanks and sincere appreciation,” said R’Club executive director Debra Ballinger. “We were astonished and honored to learn of his great and enduring legacy. His bequest was, by far, the most substantial gift that R’Club has ever received, and words alone cannot express our gratitude.”

(Photo credit: Getty Images/Sean Pavone Photo)