Independence Blue Cross (IBX) and the Philadelphia Flyers (Flyers) today announced the IBX & Flyers Winter Drive – a new community-focused initiative aimed to provide winter clothing essentials for children throughout the Greater Philadelphia region.
The drive will launch this Saturday, October 24 at Xfinity Mobile Arena ahead of the team’s game against the Anaheim Ducks at 1:00 PM and run through Tuesday, November 17 at all Flyers home games. In addition to all fan entrances at Xfinity Mobile Arena, other drop-off locations for the drive include Independence Live at 1919 Market Street in Philadelphia and Flyers Training Center in Voorhees, NJ. Fans are encouraged to bring new or gently used children’s winter clothing items including coats, hats, and gloves.
The IBX & Flyers Winter Drive is part of the Flyers and IBX Give Back initiative, a year-round community partnership focused on advancing youth health and wellbeing through volunteerism across Greater Philadelphia. The Winter Drive also follows the announcement of IBX Caring MVPs, a new community recognition program from the Flyers and IBX celebrating individuals throughout the Greater Philadelphia region who are making a difference through volunteerism, service, and support for others.
“Our relationship with the Philadelphia Flyers is rooted in a shared commitment to our communities and the people who call this region home,” said Steve Fera, Independence Blue Cross executive vice president of Public Affairs and president of Government Markets. “Together, through the Flyers and IBX Give Back initiative, we’re turning that commitment into meaningful action starting with our inaugural Winter Drive to provide local children with the essential clothing they need to stay warm this winter.”
To help celebrate the kickoff of the drive, fans are invited to join team mascot Gritty for a ceremonial “drop off” ahead of Saturday’s game at 11:30AM in the 11th Street Atrium.
“As a team, we believe in the power of coming together to make a meaningful difference in our community,” said Todd Glickman, Comcast Spectacor Chief Revenue & Business Officer. “Through our winter drive, we’re proud to help provide warmth and comfort to individuals and families in need during the colder months. We hope this effort inspires others to join us in spreading warmth, kindness and community spirit this winter.”
The drive will benefit Cradles to Crayons Philadelphia whose mission is to end clothing insecurity, so one day all children will have the essentials they need for a safe and healthy childhood.
“For thousands of children across Greater Philadelphia, having a warm winter coat isn't a given,” said Wyneshia Foxworth-Johnson, Executive Director at Cradles to Crayons Philadelphia. “A coat is more than protection from the cold. It gives children the comfort and confidence to fully participate in school and everyday activities. We're grateful to Independence Blue Cross and the Philadelphia Flyers for rallying fans and the community around this important need.”
