In an effort to encourage young girls in the U.S. to pursue the game of hockey, Olympic gold-medalist and U.S. Hockey Hall of Famer Cammi Granato has launched the 21 Grants Program.
The grants will be awarded to 21 girls between the ages of 4 to 12.
“It’s a way to give young girls in hockey who may need extra financial assistance an opportunity to play. I’m truly happy to be able to give back by relieving a little bit of that financial pressure and allow them to be on the ice,” stated Granato. “The fact that the NHL, Pure Hockey and the NHLPA have also generously stepped in to donate gear really helped cut the cost.”
Each recipient will directly receive a $500 credit that can be used to help with the cost of hockey fees. In addition, they’ll also receive an equipment package valued at approximately $300 donated by the NHL, NHLPA and Pure Hockey.
“Young girls are seeing women play hockey at a high-level and saying they want to do the same,” explained Granato. “Anything that can be done to help the game in any way is a positive and I’m really happy that I can be part of this and make a difference in someone’s life.”
With the hope of annually running the 21 Grants Program, Granato’s ambitions are to excite, inspire and support interest in the sport of hockey by aiding young girls in the most beneficial way that she can.
“I just want them to know that someone’s supporting them, that someone’s behind them and is wanting to help them out and that they matter,” said Granato. “It’s about the opportunity as well. The word opportunity is important too because potentially we’re giving someone the opportunity to find the joy that I found in the game by being able to play.”
Those wishing to apply for a grant should click here. The deadline for grant applications is November 30, 2020.