Posted on: November 20th, 2023. By: Simon Martin, yorkregion.com, Original Article.
Join the hundreds of York Region residents, and more than 15 NHL and Olympian alumni, who will rally together for the annual pro-am Hockey Helps the Homeless Dec. 15.
The event pro-am returns to the Magna Centre in Newmarket and gives hockey enthusiasts an opportunity to lace up their skates to raise awareness and funds for two local charities: Blue Door and 360°kids.
“These are some of the most challenging times for all of us, but even more for our most vulnerable. The funds raised from this tournament are crucial in supporting Blue Door to create the deeply needed affordable housing that will lead to preventing and ending homelessness across our region,” CEO of Blue Door Michael Braithwaite said.
The event brings together players, sponsors and supporters, uniting under the shared goal of raising over $300,000 to provide life-changing services and support to hundreds of people experiencing homelessness in our York Region community.
In a country known for its generosity and compassion, the reality of homelessness remains a pressing challenge. Hockey Helps the Homeless, Blue Door, and 360°kids recognize the importance of addressing this crisis head-on, firmly believing that every Canadian should have a safe place to call home and the necessary support to thrive.
The 2023 tournament will support the redevelopment of Blue Door’s Kevin’s Place, which addresses the pressing need to strengthen community services for people experiencing homelessness. The redevelopment will offer a 14-unit townhouse complex to provide supportive housing for individuals and families to successfully exit homelessness and transition into permanent housing.
“The tournament is a fun way to get involved in being part of the solution to ending homelessness, while enjoying an incredible day of our nation’s past time,” Braithwaite said. “If you can skate and love to play hockey, I encourage you to take part! If skating is not your thing, volunteer for the day of the event or sponsor one of the skaters — like me. It’s a great way to show our community we truly care about people most in need.”
The national charity, which began in York Region in 1996, runs tournaments to support local charities across Canada. With custom jerseys, beer gardens and an after-party, participants are treated like pros and have the opportunity to play in a three-game tournament alongside NHL alumni. The 2023 York Region event will include Ric Jackman, Al Iafrate, Todd Warriner and more.
“We’re incredibly excited for this year’s event and can’t thank the York Region community enough for stepping up the way they have to support the cause,” HHTH co-ordinator of hockey operations Trevor Anniss said. “From volunteering and fundraising, to spreading awareness, these are tools that foster change in the lives of so many. Thank you to all our 2023 sponsors, committee members, players, volunteers, pros and community in making this day possible. You are all game changers!”
You can donate, register to play or sign up to volunteer through the Hockey Helps the Homeless York Region website.