The Penhold Regional Multiplex arena will soon be the setting for the Battle of the Blades.
It will feature the gritty determined team of Penhold firefighters facing off against the tougher-than-nails Bowden Correctional Officers squad.
But the underlying beauty of this Dec. 9 contest is that it's for a worthy cause.
The game, which will run from 5 to 6:30 p.m., is a fundraiser for the Central Alberta Women's Emergency Shelter (CAWES).
Event organizer Angela Davis, a firefighter-EMT for the Penhold Fire Department, said members from both teams are “excited” about the Battle of the Blades Charity Hockey Game because of the growing need in the region caused by the challenging economy, which is felt more intensely by CAWES' clients during the holiday season.
“They (CAWES) are helping a lot of families in the shelter and moms leaving to start out on their own with a fresh start. They are going to help them set up for Christmas as well,” said Davis, adding the event was also made possible by the committed hard work of firefighting colleague Nicole Thomson, as well as Joe Haineault, also a firefighter and correctional officer. “CAWES is a very empowering organization and that is why we have chosen them.”
Davis noted November is Purple Lights Awareness Month, which is being held across Canada -- including Central Alberta -- to provide awareness about domestic violence and to promote healthy relationships.
“That is why we chose to support this organization, in honour of the campaign,” said Davis, adding everyone involved in the Dec. 9 hockey game is committed to promoting awareness about CAWES. “They have been around for over 30 years, and they are non-profit. They (CAWES) depend on the community to help support women when they are leaving domestic violence. We want to be able to continue to help them do that.”
Admission to the Dec. 9 event is by donated gift or gift cards. If people don't want to bring a gift or a gift card they are asked to make a $5 donation. Davis said attendees looking for a tax receipt only need to bring purchase receipts and CAWES staff will issue one.
As for gift donations, organizers are requesting new unwrapped toys for both boys and girls up to the age of 18. Davis said some of the essential items CAWES is looking for are new unopened shampoos, soaps, toothpaste, toothbrushes (adult and child) deodorant, makeup, hairbrushes, combs and accessories. The agency is also seeking new women's and children's pajamas, socks, new baby items such as soothers, teething toys, diapers, wipes, sleepers and blankets.
For more information about the game contact Davis at 403-550-3944, or email at [email protected]
Angela Davis, Penhold firefighter-EMT
"They (CAWES) depend on the community to help support women when they are leaving domestic violence. We want to be able to continue to help them do that."
