McGill Athletics & Recreation staff have come together this holiday season to support the McGill Martlet hockey team in a cause that is close to their hearts. On November 30th, the team dedicated their game to the “Shoebox Project” and with support from student athletes and staff members, they filled 66 boxes for those in need, reaching their goal to double their number from last year. The ShoeBox Project fills shoe boxes with gifts for women experiencing homelessness for the holiday season.Â
“It’s amazing to watch everyone come together to support a common cause” said Sarah Canzer, who works in the communications department in A&R. “This is an especially remarkable event because this all started with two of our student athletes, Emilia Cotter and Samantha McCluskey, who wanted to make a difference. They did a great job of leading the way and as staff we are always looking for ways to support their initiatives in the community”.Â
Emilia Cotter, Captain of the McGill Martlet hockey team stated that “this experience has been completely unforgettable; especially seeing the way that the staff and students at McGill come together to help those in need. This year we have exceeded our expectations and we could not have done it without the dedication and support from the amazing people in the McGill Athletics community. We are so grateful. I am so proud to be able to help an organization that supports women in such a kind and compassionate way. I look forward to see how our partnership with the Shoebox Project grows and develops over the upcoming years.”
“The Shoebox Project has been a great initiative for the Martlets to be involved with. Not only has it increased the players awareness of homelessness in Montreal, but it has also been a wonderful opportunity for players, coaches and staff to work together on this extremely worthwhile cause.” – Peter Smith, Martlet Hockey Head Coach
The ShoeBoxes will be going to Le Chainon Women’s Shelter on Parc avenue, and everyone at McGill Athletics & Recreation hopes to make this a yearly tradition of giving back.
A special thank-you to Sarah Canzer from McGill Athletics & Recreation for submitting this article article to the the My Healthy Workplace News editorial team via mhwnews.hr [at] mcgill.ca
