Detroit Red Wings Fund Free Youth Hockey for Flint's Youngest Players
The Eastern Michigan Hockey Association (EMHA) has received a £15,000 donation from the Detroit Red Wings Foundation and Meijer. The funds will launch a new Mini Mite programme for children aged five and under, removing costs for families. The announcement came during a special event at the 810 Sports Complex in Flint on 24 January 2023.
The donation was part of the Red Wings' Centennial Rink Rehab Program, which supports local ice rinks across Michigan. Former Red Wings forward Brent Fedyk attended the event, sharing his enthusiasm for community engagement and the team's outreach efforts. Rico Phillips, founder of the Flint Inner City Youth Hockey Program, also spoke, thanking Meijer and the Red Wings Foundation for their ongoing partnership in grassroots hockey.
EMHA, a nonprofit managing 10 youth teams and the Flint Jr. Firebirds, will use the funds to cover equipment and ice time for young players. Secretary Katie Hoffmeyer highlighted how the donation eases financial pressure on families, allowing more children to access the sport. Tom Garavaglia, general manager of the 810 Sports Complex, stressed the role of sports in community growth and the long-term benefits of such investments.
The Flint Inner City Youth Hockey Program, founded by Phillips in 2010, shares the complex with EMHA. It provides free hockey opportunities for underprivileged children, inspiring similar initiatives in the region. The Red Wings Foundation plans to continue supporting local rinks throughout their Centennial Season.
The £15,000 donation will fund EMHA's new Mini Mite programme, ensuring young children can play hockey without cost barriers. The partnership between the Red Wings Foundation, Meijer, and local organisations aims to expand access to the sport in Flint. Further donations to other rinks are expected as part of the ongoing Centennial Rink Rehab Program.
