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WHL Saskatoon Blades

More Than 1300 Donations Collected Through 2020 Teddy Bear Toss Drive-Thru Presented by SaskTel

December 23, 2020 - Western Hockey League (WHL)
Saskatoon Blades News Release


Saskatoon, Sask - The Saskatoon Blades are thrilled to announce a grand total of 1322 teddy bears and plush toys have been collected as donations from the 2020 Teddy Bear Toss Drive-Thru presented by SaskTel.

"We were blown away by the support. It was truly heartwarming to see so many fans make their way out to SaskTel Centre to toss in their donations," exclaimed Saskatoon Blades director of business operations, Tyler Wawryk. "Even though we weren't able to host a traditional game night to receive donations, these numbers speak to the compassion and generosity of our fans and community here in Saskatoon."

Despite the new layout of the Teddy Bear Toss and the frigid temperatures on December 18th, hundreds of vehicles lined up and braved the cold at the SaskTel Centre last Friday, pouring early Christmas gifts into collection areas on either side of Bill Hunter Avenue. With the help and generosity of WinMar Restoration Services in Saskatoon, each item has gone through a rigorous sanitization process to ensure the health and safety of the recipients.

"Despite the hardships of the COVID-19 pandemic, WinMar Property Restoration remains a proud, long-term partner of the Saskatoon Blades," said Kelly Rapko, general manager of WinMar Saskatoon. "While COVID-19 has taken centre-stage in our daily lives, it is important that we also focus our efforts on the many other social issues that require our attention. The teddy bears donated by so many Saskatoon Blades supporters will provide a sense of comfort, security, and peace to children in Saskatoon, and WinMar Saskatoon is honoured to have played a role in their happiness. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you to everyone who helped make this Christmas season a special one for so many boys and girls around the city."

The 1322 teddy bears and plush toys will brighten the lives of hundreds of children in the Saskatoon area this holiday season. The toys were delivered to the Salvation Army and will be added into their Christmas hampers.

"Saskatchewan people are known for their generosity, especially in these trying times," said Doug Burnett, SaskTel President and CEO. "As presenting sponsor of this year's Teddy Bear Toss Drive-Thru, we are thrilled to see so many people donate to this great cause and bring joy to families in need this holiday season."

The Saskatoon Blades would like to graciously thank those who came out and supported the 2020 Teddy Bear Toss Drive-Thru presented by SaskTel. The Blades would also like to extend thanks to SaskTel, WinMar Property Restoration Specialists, and the Saskatchewan Blue Cross for making the event possible.

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The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

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