$1 Million donation announced; Canadian Hockey Players and World Vision Canada Visit Grace Children’s Hospital

Port-au-Prince, Haiti. June 15, 2010—International Child Care, USA

The National Hockey League Player’s Association, in conjunction with World Vision Canada, held a press conference at Grace Children’s Hospital on June 9, announcing a commitment of at least one million dollars to the rebuilding of Grace Children’s Hospital. The hospital, serving children in Haiti since 1967, was mostly destroyed in earthquake that struck Haiti on January 12. They continue to operate programs and serve children from tents and makeshift facilities on the hospital campus as rebuilding plans are made.

Hockey for Haiti, the NHLPA/World Vision Canada project, raised money for Haitian earthquake relief through an auction of players’ Olympic jerseys and donations from individuals and players. More than one million dollars has been raised, with more fundraising planned.

On June 8, NHL representatives Georges Laraque, Dan Hamhuis, Devin Smith (Chairman, NHLPA Goals & Dreams) & Jonathan Weatherdon (NHLPA Director, Communications) traveled to Haiti to meet the children at Grace Children’s Hospital. They were able to give the children at Grace hockey jerseys and sticks, and also taught some basic hockey skills.

More details about the reconstruction project and how that individuals and organizations can become involved with the recovery of Grace Children’s Hospital can be obtained by calling 269-382-9960.

Contact: Ann Simmons
Communications and Development Coordinator
asimmons@internationalchildcare.org
269-382-9960
3506 Lovers Lane, Suite 8
Kalamazoo, MI  49001
www.internationalchildcare.org