About HEF
Mainly focused in the Twin Cities metro area, the Hockey Emergency Fund is a grant-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit established in 2024 by Youth Hockey Hub. The Hockey Emergency Fund was created to help those most in need within the hockey community.
Our Mission
At The Hockey Emergency Fund, we believe that hockey is more than just a sport—it’s a community, a passion, and a lifeline for many. Our mission is simple but powerful: to provide financial assistance and support to members of the hockey community who are facing unforeseen hardships. We aim to ensure that players, coaches, officials, and families who are experiencing difficult financial situations have the resources they need to remain an active part of the hockey world.
Our Purpose
Hockey has the unique ability to foster teamwork, resilience, and personal growth. Unfortunately, for some, financial barriers can threaten their ability to stay involved in the sport they love. That’s where we come in. Through our grant-based program, we offer financial aid to help cover the costs of equipment, registration fees, travel expenses, and other related costs. Our goal is to remove the obstacles that prevent individuals from participating and to create an inclusive environment where everyone, regardless of their financial situation, has the opportunity to pursue their passion for hockey.
What We Do
We understand that life can be unpredictable, and unforeseen hardships—whether medical, financial, or personal—can create significant challenges. Our approach is compassionate, transparent, and responsive. By providing assistance to those in need, we help ensure that players, coaches, officials, and families can continue their involvement in hockey, whether they’re facing a temporary setback or a more long-term struggle.
We focus on:
- **Financial Assistance:** Offering grants for registration, equipment, and other essential costs related to participation.
- **Community Support:** Creating a network of care where individuals can connect, share experiences, and find solidarity during difficult times.
- **Access to Resources:** Ensuring that all members of the hockey community have access to the tools they need to stay involved, no matter their financial circumstances.
Our Values
- Compassion: We listen with empathy and respond with understanding, always prioritizing the needs of those we serve.
- Transparency: We operate with integrity, ensuring clear communication and accountability in every aspect of our work.
- Responsiveness: We act quickly and efficiently to meet the urgent needs of individuals and families facing hardships.
Why It Matters
Hockey has the power to change lives. Whether it’s providing a sense of belonging, teaching valuable life skills, or simply offering a safe space for young athletes to grow, hockey plays an essential role in many individuals' lives. We are here to make sure that financial challenges don’t take that opportunity away.
Join Us
By donating to The Hockey Emergency Fund, or spreading the word about our mission, you can help us make a lasting impact on the lives of those who need it most. Together, we can ensure that hockey remains a sport for all—regardless of financial circumstances.
Thank you for being part of our journey to make hockey more accessible, and supportive for everyone.