A first responders face-off on the ice in Cobourg recently netted more than $9,000 for Big Brothers Big Sisters of South-West Durham and Northumberland.
More than 1,200 spectators filled the arena at Cobourg Community Centre on D’Arcy Street to watch a team from Cobourg Police Service take on players from the Cobourg Fire Department.
Firefighters were presented with the Chris Garrett Memorial Trophy, donated by CJ’s Tap and Grill, for their 6-3 victory over the Cobourg Police Service team. The trophy is named in honour of Constable Chris Garrett, a Cobourg police officer who was shot and killed in the line of duty on May 15, 2004.
“We are thrilled with the impact of this year’s Battle of the Badges charity hockey game,” Cobourg Police Service Constable Ryan Rinneard shared with kawarthaNOW.
“The community’s support has been overwhelming, and it’s heartwarming to see everyone come together for such a great cause. The funds raised will make a significant difference in the lives of the children and families involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters.”
The Town of Cobourg hosted the second annual Battle of the Badges hockey game on March 1, and the highly anticipated emergency services match-up raised exactly $9,076 to benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of South-West Durham and Northumberland.
Money was generated through donations collected at the entrance to the venue, and throughout various locations in the arena. In addition, a raffle, cookie sales, merchandise donations, and sponsorship helped benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters.
The Cobourg Cougars junior hockey team also contributed proceeds from its 50/50 draw and chuck-a-puck contest to support the fundraiser.
Organizers were hoping to double the $3,550 the event raised during its inaugural year, and they were victorious in that aspect of the evening as well.
“The Town of Cobourg extends its gratitude to the sponsors of the event — including Brock Street Brewery, Puck It, Canadian Tire, and New Amherst Homes — as well as the community members who attended and supported the cause,” stated the town in a media release.
Along with the charity hockey game, the town offered family-friendly activities before the puck dropped. The evening also included performances by Just Dance Northumberland, face painting, and photo opportunities with mascots Chippy the Squirrel, Chase the Police Dog, and Sparky the Fire Dog. There were food and beverages available for purchase, and Prep Food Co. was on site offering cookies for a $2 donation.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of South-West Durham and Northumberland has been changing lives through the power of mentorship for the past five decades, the media release noted.
The organization offers one-to-one and group programs that aim to help children build self-confidence, develop essential life skills, and forge meaningful connections within their communities.
