Michael Waltrip will sport a Sandy Hook School Support Fund paint scheme during the Daytona 500 that will be held later this month, ESPN reports.
As a means of paying tribute to the 26 victims, 20 of whom were children, that were massacred by a gunman on Dec. 14 in Newtown, Conn., Waltrip teamed up with Swan Racing to raise awareness and donations for the fund helping the community heal. Waltrip will be drive the No. 26 car to symbolize the victims during the Feb. 24 race.
"It will be an emotional week knowing that we have the potential to do so much good for the Newtown community," Waltrip told ESPN. "I'm racing for a reason."
The paint scheme was introduced during today's media day session at the Daytona International Speedway. Children and families in Newtown were shown the paint scheme last week in a private viewing.
"Being in Newtown last week and delivering a moment of happiness to that community was unlike anything I've ever experienced. Looking out at a room of smiling faces amidst the aftermath of a horrible tragedy was very powerful," NASCAR chairman Brian France said.
"It hit me that the NASCAR industry and our passionate fan base have an unbelievable opportunity to rally around this cause and make a huge difference for a community in need. I am excited to witness firsthand the NASCAR community's embrace and support of the Sandy Hook School Support Fund."
The idea came about over conversations held by NASCAR president Mike Helton and Daytona Beach businessman Hans Reelick. Reelick Reelick is a Newtown native and still owns a businesses in the area.
Waltrip, owner of Michael Waltrip Racing, said all three of MWR cars will also have a decal encouraging fans to donate $10 to the fund by texting "Newtown" to 80888.
France has already donated $50,000 to the fund and that amount will be matched by The NASCAR Foundation.