The New York Islanders announced recently that they raised $28,071 for area residents affected by Hurricane Sandy. These funds go directly to the American Red Cross’ Hurricane Sandy Relief Fund to assist Long Islanders in need.
Over the few weeks, people from around the world came together online to bid in the special “Hockey with a Heart” auction featuring one-of-a-kind sports and entertainment experiences. Local sports teams, organizations and individuals all donated to this unique auction, hosted by the Islanders, in an effort to help those who were affected by Hurricane Sandy. Fifteen donors contributed a total of 33 items, which were bid on more than 300 times. This auction raised $22,317 that will all go towards the American Red Cross Hurricane Sandy Relief fund.
On Monday, Nov. 12, the Islanders held the “Hockey with a Heart” open skate fundraiser. The team invited all area residents to join them for a day away from dealing with the Hurricane damage and more than 2,000 people attended. The Islanders and SMG opened Nassau Coliseum’s ice free of charge for anyone who participated. Those who visited the arena were encouraged to bring monetary and non-perishable donations, while all concession proceeds also went directly to those in need. Altogether, along with employees from the New York Islanders, arena management company SMG and Coliseum concessionaire SAVOR, the team collected more than 5,200 pounds of food, $5,754 and countless amounts of clothing that filled two 24-foot box trucks, amounting to 13,000 pounds. The Islanders donated all bedding, blankets and clothing to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island, all food and baby supplies to Island Harvest and all money to the American Red Cross’ Hurricane Sandy Relief Fund to assist Long Islanders in need. Founded in 1972, the New York Islanders Hockey Club is the proud winner of four Stanley Cup Championships. The Islanders are also extremely active in the community working with organizations such as Smile Train, National Center for Missing and Exploited Children and raise money under the team’s charitable foundation, the New York Islanders Children’s Foundation. The team also has the Islanders Community Events Tour, which is an interactive NHL theme park geared towards the younger fan. The Islanders Community Events Tour visits local schools, community festivals, hockey rinks, local charity events and other similar functions throughout the course of the year.
For more team information, log on to newyorkislanders.com.
