The Sharks Foundation has provided $50,000 in Community Assist Grants to six local nonprofits as part of the NHL's Hockey Fights Cancer initiative. The grants aim to support youth and families impacted by cancer in the Bay Area. This effort, presented by Kaiser Permanente, emphasizes hope and community through hockey.
In alignment with the NHL’s annual Hockey Fights Cancer (HFC) initiative, the Sharks Foundation announced $50,000 in grants to support families affected by cancer. The funding goes to six local nonprofits focused on youth and pediatric oncology.
“Hockey Fights Cancer is about more than awareness; it’s about using the power of hockey to bring hope, connection, and healing to families facing unimaginable challenges,” said Kevin Brown, Executive Director of the Sharks Foundation and Head of Community Impact for Sharks Sports & Entertainment. “Through these grants, we’re helping local organizations deliver comfort and relief when it’s needed most, showing what it truly means to be Teal Together. This month, the color lavender reminds us that compassion and community are just as powerful as the game itself.”
A key partnership with Kaiser Permanente provides a $25,000 grant to the Kids & Art Foundation. This will fund two 2026 Destination Workshops, benefiting 200 individuals by using art to reduce stress from pediatric cancer treatment. Additionally, the Sharks Foundation and Kids & Art will host a private art workshop this month for pediatric oncology patients and their families.
Five $5,000 Hockey Fights Cancer Community Assist Grants, supported by benefactors John and Cindy Cook, go to the following organizations:
- American Cancer Society: Funding for “Courageous Kids Day” at California’s Great America, offering joy to pediatric patients and families.
- Jacob’s Heart Children’s Cancer Support Services: Groceries, counseling, transportation, and financial aid for over 150 children in Santa Clara and Santa Cruz counties.
- Okizu: Free spots at “Camp Okizu,” a week-long summer camp for youth ages 7-17 affected by cancer.
- Pink Ribbon Good: 500 organic meals for children in homes impacted by breast and gynecological cancers.
- There With Care of the Bay Area: Gas cards for 100 pediatric oncology families to cover treatment travel.
These initiatives extend the Sharks' impact beyond the ice, providing relief and connection during Hockey Fights Cancer month.