Hockey tackles hunger during a Barrie heatwave

Purolator players take part in the Mind to Muscle charity hockey game Tuesday July 21. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

During the heatwave... maybe strapping on some skates and hitting a nice cold rink sounds like a good idea.

It’s time for the 11th annual Mind to Muscle Cup at the Allandale Recreation Centre on Tuesday.

The night hockey, camaraderie and community spirit is in support of the Barrie Food Bank.

“As in hockey, success comes from teamwork, showing up for one another, and stepping up when it matters most,” said Karen Shuh, executive director of Barrie Food Bank.

Mind to Muscle, together with Purolator and Domino’s, are beckoning the hockey community to come together and tackle hunger in Barrie.

For more than 24 years, Mind to Muscle’s training programs have helped develop a long list of NHL, OHL, NCAA, U SPORTS, and elite-level hockey players.

In Barrie, as food insecurity affects hundreds of local families, the Barrie Food Bank remains a vital source of support for individuals and families across the community.

The food bank provides assistance through more than 7,600 visits each month, an 11% increase over last year.

Through the Mind 2 Muscle Hockey Game, players, sponsors, and spectators have an opportunity to make a meaningful difference while coming together for an exciting community event.

“We see those same values every day in our community. As more families turn to the food bank for support, events like the Mind to Muscle hockey game help us keep food on the shelves and hope in the hearts of those facing difficult circumstances. Every donation made, and community member in the stands helps make a real difference,” Shuh said.

Event Highlights:

• Elite Charity Hockey Game – Featuring top talent from the AHL, ECHL, OHL, Finnish Liiga, DEL, NCAA, and USPORTS.
• Free Admission – Open to all players, families, and supporters.
• Free Domino’s Pizza – Enjoy a slice when you bring a non-perishable food donation (while supplies last).
• Prize Draws – Every non-perishable food donation earns you a draw ticket for a chance to win several prizes:

Charlie Horse will of course make an appearance and Purolator’s Tackle Hunger Team will be on-site collecting food and monetary donations for the Barrie Food Bank.