(Supplied)

By rdnewsNOW staff

In Partnership With Red Deer Rebels

United Way Central Alberta thanks community for record-breaking support of its 2024 Sockey Day

Feb 22, 2024 | 4:33 PM

United Way Central Alberta (UWCA) is expressing its sincere appreciation for what it describes as the overwhelming support shown by the community at this year’s Sockey Day in partnership with the Red Deer Rebels.

Officials say the annual event, held at the Peavey Mart Centrium, saw an incredible display of generosity from community members and dedicated partners, resulting in a record-breaking 4,813 pairs of socks being tossed onto the ice during the Family Day Rebels home game Monday afternoon.

“We are blown away by this year’s response. Seeing so many businesses, people and families coming together and donating socks to folks in need demonstrates the growing commitment Central Albertans have in addressing local basic needs,” said UWCA CEO, Chelsea O’Donoghue.

The organization says all collected socks go directly to local agencies across Central Alberta to benefit individuals and families in need.

“Over 38,000 Central Albertans are struggling to meet their basic needs, and the current cost of living adds even more strain when you’re barely making ends meet. Sockey Day is fun for the whole family and highlights the significant impact that is achievable when the community unites for a common cause, one sock at a time.”

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In the lead-up to the event, United Way officials say over 30 community partners played key roles in sock collection and awareness-building efforts, ensuring everyone who came to watch the game could participate in the toss.

One highlight, officials point out, was a friendly competition among the Bank of Montreal, Royal Bank of Canada, Servus Credit Union, and Scotiabank that saw 17 local bank branches working to gather as many sock donations as possible, with Scotiabank coming out on top, collecting 958 pairs of socks.

United Way Central Alberta extends special appreciation to the Red Deer Rebels and their proud community partners whose dedication and enthusiasm greatly contributed to the success of Sockey Day 2024.

“As we approach the last six weeks of our annual fundraising campaign, we ask Central Albertans, if you can give, please donate to United Way. We are $100,000 away from reaching our Campaign Goal of $1,576,900, and every dollar counts,” said O’Donoghue.

Officials say funds raised through United Way’s annual Campaign stay local and support community investment in critical programs that ensure access to basic needs, increase access to mental health services and create brighter futures for all Central Albertans.

Game day volunteers. (Supplied)

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