Holiday cheer drive unites Stonewall hockey community
An upcoming hockey tournament will offer a chance to make the holidays a little brighter through a donation drive for toys, gifts and cash for the local cheer board.
The U15 Stonewall Minor Hockey and Ringette Association tournament committee has partnered with the Stonewall & District Cheer Board for a “Fill the Net for Christmas Cheer” campaign. Outdoor Hockey Club donated a net for the initiative, which invites visiting teams to help fill it with items for families in need. The goal is to spread holiday cheer outside the arena as well as on the ice.
The tournament will take place Dec. 6 and 7 at the Veterans Memorial Sports Complex in Stonewall. The donation net will be set up in the lobby throughout the weekend for players, families and community members to drop off items at any time.
Tournament chair Richelle McClintock said this is the first year the U15 tournament has included the Fill the Net for Christmas Cheer campaign.
“We wanted to find a fun and meaningful way to give back during the holidays while bringing our hockey community together,” she said.
“The Stonewall and District Christmas Cheer Board does an incredible job supporting local families over the holidays, and we wanted to help make a difference right here at home. Our tournament brings together so many families, players and visitors — it’s a great opportunity to channel that community spirit toward something that helps others.”
They’re expecting 14 visiting teams, with players travelling from communities across Manitoba as well as northwestern Ontario.
“It’s a great mix of local and visiting teams, and we’re encouraging everyone to take part in the cheer drive. We’d also love to see community members get involved. Anyone can stop by the arena during the tournament and help us fill the net with unwrapped gifts or toys,” McClintock said. “We’re really proud to combine hockey and community giving this year. It’s a simple way for our players to learn about teamwork and generosity — both on and off the ice.”
Melissa Moran, a board member of the Stonewall and District Cheer Board, said the non-profit relies entirely on donations to support local families.
“Initiatives such as Fill the Net increase awareness and community involvement and help fill our shelves with hamper items,” she said. “Last year, we had 140 families sign up for hampers, and the number continues to increase each year.”
Some of the most-needed items are gifts for teens, including gift cards for clothing, tech or fast food. Other ideas include crossbody or belt bags, wallets, backpacks and teen toiletries such as body wash, lotion, shampoo and conditioner.
Other in-demand items include hoodies and sweatpants in sizes XS to XXL, infant and toddler toys, socks in sizes 4 to 6, “stay-dry” mittens for all ages, water bottles, board or card games, crafts and puzzles.
Along with the Fill the Net campaign, Cheer Board drop-off locations include Cooperators Stonewall, 204 Pallet & Packaging in Stony Mountain, Quarry Physio Stonewall, Complete Physio Stonewall, TD Bank Stonewall, CIBC Stonewall, Stonewall Hair Source, Red River Co-op Food Store Stonewall and Warren Chiropractic.
“This year, brand new, we have a QR code on our signage and social media page that allows individuals to make a monetary donation quickly and easily and receive a receipt,” Moran added.
For Moran, her four years with the Cheer Board have been deeply meaningful.
“It is so fulfilling to volunteer my time and energy to this great cause and know that I’m helping other families navigate the holiday season and provide their kids with some gifts and a holiday meal,” she said.
Randy Frykas of Outdoor Hockey Club said he’s also pleased to support the initiative.
“Fill the Net is a great way to bring the hockey community together and help those in need over the holiday season,” he said. “After the cheer drive, the net will be off to a new home for someone to enjoy playing hockey for years to come.”
Families who would like to request a hamper can call the Stonewall and District Cheer Board at 1-204-467-7370. The deadline to apply is Dec. 10.
