At Eva’s, we are proud of our continued partnership with Hockey Helps the Homeless (HHTH), an organization dedicated to using hockey to fight homelessness.
HHTH organizes pro-am events like the Bay Street Tournament on April 20, 2024. These friendly competitions unite activists, supporters, and pro hockey players like Wendel Clark, Georges Laraque, and Jayna Hefford to raise funds and awareness for homelessness.
Georges Laraque (R), the first Black hockey player from French Canada to play in the NHL.
For Georges Laraque, the first Black hockey player from French Canada to play in the NHL, the cause strikes a deeply personal chord. “My road to the NHL was full of obstacles, and I had to battle racism to achieve my dream,” he says. “It wasn’t easy, but I knew if I fought through it, I would become a role model and an inspiration to many minorities who also dream of playing in the NHL.”
Gratitude for Longstanding Support
The Bay Street Tournament and our dedicated volunteers have raised over $2.4M for Eva’s since 2009, providing crucial funding for our safe shelter and crisis services. The 2024 tournament aims to raise $250,000 for Eva’s and Sojourn House, a Toronto-based organization that provides a safe place where refugees are supported as they pursue a life in Canada.
Louise Smith, Eva’s Executive Director, emphasizes the impact of the partnership:
Adapting to Changing Needs
As the homelessness crisis in Toronto evolves, so does HHTH’s support. With 57% of youth at Eva’s identifying as refugees or refugee claimants, our partnership with HHTH allows us to provide vital support for the evolving needs of youth experiencing homelessness.
Georges Laraque aims to use hockey to support newcomers to Canada. “For me, playing in these tournaments and raising funds is helping someone have a second chance, to believe in their dream again, and to become a leader in their own way.”
Get Involved
Contact
Contact: For more information about ways to get involved or event sponsorship, contact Eva’s Donor Engagement Specialist, Matthew Griffin, at [email protected]