Senators Community Foundation releases 2025–26 impact report

The Senators Community Foundation (SCF) has released their 2025–26 community impact report, detailing $3.2 million donated to 74 local organizations over last season. 

The SCF distributes funds for the care of children, opportunity for children, and access to sport for children.

“Every child deserves the opportunity to dream about what is possible and the chance to pursue that dream,” wrote SCF president Jacqueline Belsito in the report.

“But the reality is that not every child starts from the same place. For some, playing hockey or going to camp is simply out of reach. For others, there may not be enough food for a school lunch, or the support they need to navigate a mental health challenge. Some children and families are facing moments that no one should have to face alone.”

Last season, the SCF enabled over 1,300 children to participate in sports, including the support of over 815 players on the ice each week. They also supplied thousands of warm meals and permanent homes for 340 youth, funded over 4,000 crisis calls and chat sessions for youth struggling with mental health, and supported over 100 youth inpatients with specialized mental health treatment plans.

“More than $3.2 million was invested back into our community this past year, a record-breaking achievement, but one that represents much more than a number,” wrote Senators owner Michael Andlauer.

“It represents a belief that winning is not only measured by what happens on the scoreboard. It is measured by the difference we make in the lives of others. This is what it means to be a Senator.”

Throughout the season, Senators players, alumni, staff, and wives and girlfriends participated in community appearances across the region, including visits to hospitals and schools, meet-and-greets with fans, and the support of charitable initiatives.

These were highlighted during the holidays by a full-team visit to CHEO, and the annual support of the Toy Mountain by the team’s wives and girlfriends, which ensured hundreds of children received gifts during the holiday season.

“Representing the Ottawa Senators means more than playing hockey. It’s about showing up for our community, connecting with fans, and using our platform to make a positive difference wherever we can,” said Senators netminder Linus Ullmark.

During the team’s preseason visit to Quebec City in September 2025, the team also participated in five community initiatives, including a children’s hospital visit, a surprise fan autograph session, a donation to a local food bank, a visit to Thomas Chabot’s former elementary school, and participation in a Pride and Reconciliation Walk.

“Some of the most meaningful moments of our season happen away from the rink. A conversation, a photo, or simply spending time with someone can have a lasting impact, and those are experiences we’ll always carry with us,” said Chabot.

The Senators Community Foundation raised more than $850,000 at the Fullscript Black, Red & Gold Gala, $382,000 at the 2025 Sens Charity Open presented by Bell, approximately $175,000 on Hockey Fights Cancer night, and $168,000 during the Ignite Hope Telethon.

The SCF also raised $75,000 during Hockey Talks presented by Bell Let’s Talk, $60,000 during Pride Night presented by CIBC, $45,000 during Armed Forces Night, $40,000 during Women in Sport Night presented by Canadian Tire, and $30,000 during Brady’s Skate for Kids. 

In addition to their own events, the SCF was the beneficiary of community-led initiatives throughout the year. This included $300,000 raised at Maddy’s Gala, $275,000 raised at the EllisDon Golf Tournament, and $100,000 raised during the Tim Hortons Smile Cookie Campaign.

“And when Senators players returned to CHEO to spend time with patients, families, and staff, we were reminded that impact isn’t always measured in dollars. Sometimes, it’s a simple smile. A moment of connection. A reminder to a child and their family that they are not alone,” wrote Belsito.

“Thank you for believing in our mission, standing with our community, and helping us create a stronger, healthier, and more inclusive Ottawa-Gatineau.”

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