Charity Hcckey game, arran elderslie, feb 18, 2024First Responders and U18 Ice Dogs at the February 18 game. (Photo provided by Melissa Barfoot)
Midwestern

First Responders beat U18 Ice Dogs in charity game

The Arran-Elderslie Minor Hockey Association organized a charity hockey game between area first responders and the U18 Icedogs to support local breakfast programs.

Around $6,300 was raised, helping to feed kids who attend Chesley, Tara, and Paisley public schools.

"I think we're seeing a time right now where people are hurting financially, especially kids coming to school with not a lot in their lunch kits," said Melissa Barfoot, organizer of the event. "We rely on these breakfast programs in the morning to feed our kids."

The game was tied up, ending in a shootout in which the first responders were victorious. That team was made up of OPP officers, Bruce County EMS attendants, and firefighters from Paisley, Chesley, and Tara fire departments.

Barfoot said an estimated 400-450 people attended, which is a great turn out, considering the roads weren't the best, due to weather.

"Hockey games are always a big hit," she said. "It's been a while, pre-COVID, since we've done something in our community where we've been able to have a large crowd come out."

Jimmy McDonald, a former special Olympian, was a special guest for the night and did the puck drop. Charity Hockey game, arran elderslie, feb 18, 2024Jimmy McDonald participating in the puck drop.

During the intermission, a mini game was played by the U7 Icedogs.

If you missed the event but would like to still donate, you can get in touch with the Arran-Elderslie Minor Hockey Association.

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