Lloydminster Bobcats captain, Ben Bygrove, and forward Matthew Swanson hold the zone on Saturday night at the Civic Centre against the Brooks Bandits. Taylor Weaver Meridian Source
The Lloydminster Bobcats, in partnership with the Lloydminster Region Health Foundation, has started a fundraising campaign to support mental health initiatives and resources throughout the Lloydminster public and Lloydminster Catholic School Divisions.
From now until Jan. 7, 2023, the ‘Cats are attempting to raise $25,000 through online and in-person donations at home games.
If the goal is reached, Bobcats players and coaching staff will shave their heads for the cause.
“We are extremely excited to work with the Health Foundation on this initiative as they have gone above and beyond when it comes to giving back to our community,” said forward Jayven Leslie.
“As a group, we understand mental health is not talked about nearly enough and affects so many people in our community in many different ways. Whether you are an athlete, parent, youth or young adult, nobody should have to suffer in silence and we hope we can do our part in changing that.”
Players chose to put the money towards mental health hoping to bring awareness to the situation and do their part in ending the stigma surrounding mental health.
According to a recent study, on average, one-in-five Albertans struggle with mental issues. In Lloydminster, one-in-three people on average struggle with mental health issues. Ultimately, the players hope to help tackle issues that affect our community so closely.
“It has been amazing to see from our organization the importance our players have put in this, full credit goes to local player Jayven Leslie and his teammates for making this initiative a reality. We would also like to thank Stephanie and the Lloyd Regional Health Foundation for working with our group, it just shows the community connection we are grateful to have.”
Stephanie Munro, CEO of the Lloydminster Region Health Foundation, shared in Dube’s excitement as she knows just how far these funds will go.
“I am incredibly impressed with the initiative these youth have taken to initiate such a unique fundraising opportunity for our community and Project Sunrise; their maturity level and commitment to help others in need is both innovative and selfless,” she said.
“The parents, coaches and adults involved in these youth’s lives should be extremely proud of their philanthropic efforts. I am excited to work alongside such an ambitious group of young individuals, and help them reach their goal.”
Donations are being accepted at Bobcats home games or at www.lrhf.ca/events
