RELEASE: EOCF commits $1.5 million to Hockey Alberta Foundation

EDMONTON, AB - In a team effort to make a significant impact in growing the game of hockey in Northern Alberta, the Edmonton Oilers Community Foundation (EOCF) has committed $1.5 million in funding to the Hockey Alberta Foundation (HAF).
The funding will generate support for three areas:
"Support for minor hockey and the growth of the game has always been an important mandate for the Edmonton Oilers Community Foundation," said Corey Smith, Board Chair, EOCF. "This past year was difficult for minor hockey participants, their families, coaches and all minor hockey associations throughout our province. This new program provides funding to continue to grow the game of hockey in our community. We are hockey and we are so proud to support programs aimed at growing the game and getting more kids, from all backgrounds, involved."
"The Edmonton Oilers Community Foundation has always been a strong supporter of our efforts, contributing annually to our Every Kid Every Community program. With this new funding, we're excited at the opportunity to increase support in Northern Alberta hockey communities while also being able to recognize the key people in those same communities," said Dennis Zukiwsky, Board Chair, Hockey Alberta Foundation.
The new Hockey Alberta member grant program will allow access to funding for Hockey Alberta members in Northern and Central Alberta. Priority for funding will be given to those in need for leadership development, introduction to hockey, female, para, Indigenous hockey programming and any inclusion and diversity initiatives. Members will be able to access the funding application via
Hockey Alberta
.
Throughout the pandemic, volunteers have been the backbone of minor hockey. To thank the volunteers, the EOCF and HAF have formed the Hockey Alberta volunteer recognition/thank you program. Coaches, parents and players will have an opportunity to be inspired by the Edmonton Oilers or Edmonton Oil Kings by attending games and getting more connected to the teams.
The HAF works to inspire every kid in every community's passion for hockey. In collaboration with the EOCF, the HAF can continue to grow the game in Northern Alberta.