Kitimat’s Guns and Hoses charity hockey match has once again demonstrated the community’s unwavering spirit of generosity. The Feb. 10 showdown between local law enforcement and firefighters at Tamitik Arena Feb. 10 culminated with an impressive $19,141 raised for KidSport Kitimat. This notable sum, collected through entrance fees, raffles, and 50/50 draws, aims to make sports more accessible to children facing financial hurdles.
Shaun O’Neill, the chair of the KidSport Kitimat chapter, expressed his gratitude towards the community’s consistent support, highlighting the importance of the funds to ensure that no child, regardless of their financial situation, is left on the sidelines. “We’re really blessed to have such a giving community,” O’Neill remarked. “We have amazing partners with law enforcement and firefighters who are willing to put this event on every year.”
READ MORE: Team Guns hose down firefighters in 7-3 hockey win
The funds raised will assist in covering sport registration fees for low-income families in Kitimat and Kitamaat Village. Children aged 18 and under are eligible for up to $500 per calendar year. To qualify, sport activities must be affiliated with Sport BC member organizations and offer a sustained experience under the guidance of a qualified coach for at least six weeks.
Each year the number of area families accessing the grants range anywhere from five to 20.
The Kitimat KidSport chapter also manages the Joe Iannarelli legacy fund, which supports equipment purchases and additional registration costs, further ensuring that financial barriers do not keep children from participating in sports.
In case you missed it, this year’s faceoff saw the law enforcement team, dubbed Team Guns, claim victory over Team Hoses, composed of firefighters from Kitimat and neighboring communities, with a score of 7-4.
To donate to KidSport, or to apply for a grant, visit kidsportcanada.ca/british-columbia/kitimat/