Preds Foundation, Players Spread Holiday Cheer for Bethlehem Centers

The circumstances didn't allow for Predators players to greet the children at the team's annual charity holiday party. A postponed hockey game then required the celebration to be moved elsewhere.
But those at the Bethlehem Centers of Nashville are accustomed to embracing less-than-ideal situations and making them better for all involved. Combined with some cheer provided by the Nashville Predators Foundation empowered by SmileDirectClub, the Preds annual charity holiday party still captured the spirit of the season and made some Christmas wishes come true for those in need.

After teaming up with the Bethlehem Centers, whose mission is to "promote self-reliance and positive life choices for children, youth and seniors in the North Nashville community through the delivery of educational programs and special services," the Preds Foundation brought dinner, gifts and even Santa Gnash to the children and families who rely on the organization for assistance.
And the result was reminiscent of something right out of the North Pole - Preds style.
"A night like tonight is very dynamic and very special for the families that we serve," Bethlehem Centers CEO Steve Fleming said. "Of course, we deal with a lot of families that have a bunch of hardships and challenges - we come from a pretty tough community - so being able to have these kids to participate in structured, after-school programs and families benefiting from a number of resource services that we offer, and partnering with organizations like the Nashville Predators Foundation, you're able to spread joy to create joy in the lives of people during this holiday season."

With help from Preds staff members, players Colton Sissons, Ryan Johansen and Dante Fabbro sponsor the event and make sure every gift on each wish list is purchased. And while they haven't been able to visit in person over the past two years due to COVID protocols, the players keep tabs from afar to make sure the impact is being made.
"This is a lot of fun for us to do every year," Sissons said. "We look forward to it, and everybody needs to open up a little something over the holidays. We're happy that we can have a little involvement with that and bring some joy over Christmas."
That cheer was certainly felt, and especially for these Nashvillians, that's the best gift of all this holiday season.
"Just a small gift, a gesture like this, goes a long way in creating hope and opportunity for the people that we serve," Fleming said. "We just had a wonderful time, and all the parents expressed that sincere appreciation and joy and love for this opportunity and for blessing their families."