Using Hockey To Help

As we wait for tomorrow's game against the Thrashers, and as we sit here with only the Ranger/Penguins game to watch, I spent some time cruising around the net. (Not like that isn't what I do all day long anyway. It's amazing I actually get anything done at all.)

With the economy the way it is, everyone is struggling in some way. But the charities are struggling even more than usual. When your normal benefactors are having their own difficulties, things go from bad to worse for those who have the least.

Please mark this on your calendar, and I will try to send out reminders on Twitter and Facebook as well. February 21st the Islanders will be collecting coats for The INN in Hempstead.

Coats will be collected outside of the Coliseum main box office, Gate 16, and Gate 1. All coats will be donated to The INN in Hempstead. The INN addresses the issues of hunger and homelessness on Long Island by providing shelter, food, clothing and long term housing and supportive services for those who seek help.

You'll receive a voucher for a game, but you should really just do it to keep someone warm. Look in your closet, look in your kid's closet. I'm sure there are coats there that haven't been worn, that don't fit, that you feel are out of style. As long as they are clean and in good condition, they can be put to good use. Please do.

The other charitable fun item the Islanders are featuring is their annual Valentine Puck Surprise sale:

On February 10, during the Islanders-Los Angeles Kings game, autographed Islanders pucks will be sold on the Nassau Coliseum concourse for $20. Each puck will be individually wrapped and contain a signature. If your puck has a gold signature, you’ll have the opportunity to be introduced to that player following the game for a quick meet and greet. All proceeds will go to the Islanders Children’s Foundation.

Your $20 donation will get you an autographed puck and some candy. It will also make a difference to the Children's foundation. Bring an extra $20 with you to the 2/10 game and make it a Valentine's gift for someone special... like yourself!

And lastly, have you signed up yet for Goal Green? Have you? Why not? Click on the link! Click it!