Sunshine Coast Kid Sport applied for NHL equipment from the NHLPA Goals and Dreams Fund and received three sets of hockey gear last week.
KidSport presented Tom Poulton, who represented the HEROS Program, with equipment that will outfit three youth from head to toe. HEROS is a youth program on the Sunshine Coast that is supported by KidSport Sunshine Coast Chapter and School District No. 46 (SD46).
“The NHLPA Goals and Dreams help economically disadvantaged children play the great sport of hockey,” said Diane Wagner, co-chair of KidSport. “Through the donation of brand new hockey equipment, we can help a group of deserving children get on the ice.”
The HEROS (Hockey Education Reaching Out Society) Program on the Sunshine Coast empowers children through ice hockey. The premise of HEROS is to use the game of hockey as a catalyst to attract youth to a program offering support for education, self-esteem building and life skills training.
“This is the second year that the Sunshine Coast KidSport Chapter was successful in getting NHL hockey gear for youth,” said Jim Gray, KidSport director. “Our goal is to help as many kids as we can to play in their chosen sport.”
HEROS will be on the ice in early October with HEROS events occurring throughout the year. Transportation is provided through a partnership with Sechelt Indian Band, and the leadership mentorship program involves secondary schools and the Old-Timers Hockey League.
“Our KidSport Chapter has helped over 400 kids on the Coast play sports now,” added Carol Duff, co-chair. “Our focus is assisting with registration fees, but when an opportunity for equipment arises, we pursue it.”
— Submitted
