Warming hearts and the community
January 19, 2022
A local hockey team has taken it upon themselves to start 2022 on a positive note.
Supporting the SPARC Red Deer non-profit coalition, the U11 AA Red Deer Chiefs has decided to Give The Gift Of Warmth to those in need.
From January 13 to January 18, the sixteen players set out to collect 200 new items to donate. Through family, friends, neighbours and hard-earned money collected by shoveling driveways, the young athletes have contributed to making winter a little warmer for those battling the cold. From socks to toques, to scarves and sweaters, they wanted to lend a hand in the most meaningful way. The team is aware, now more than ever, that it is a privilege to be able to play hockey and wanted to give back to the community as a thank you.
On Tuesday, January 18, all their donations were displayed at centre ice of the Collicutt Centre arena. SPARC Red Deer representative Denise Fredeen was present to thank all the athletes for their generous gift.
“Through this project of their own initiative, these young philanthropists were able to build resilience, experience a sense of belonging and get involved in their community. These are important elements to build healthy, resilient, caring individuals,” said Denise Fredeen.
Would you also like to Give The Gift Of Warmth? SPARC Red Deer is still accepting donations of new youth and adult winterwear at the downtown library until Friday, January 21. The donated items will be given to the RCMP, local schools, the Social Diversion Team as well as the Mustard Seed to be distributed to members of the community in need. For more information on this initiative, visit SPARC Red Deer's website.