The Good Neighbor Skate Drop-Off ended this week, culminating with an incredible number of used skates being dropped off at centers around the city. All total 445 pairs of skates were contributed to the cause, led by BlueCross BlueShield of Western New York (BCBS) and the Buffalo Sabres Foundation. The three-day event was implemented in order to collect enough skates to create a loaner program at the new Martin Luther King, Jr. skating basin. Currently the skates are being cleaned, fixed, and sharpened at Pure Hockey.
“We’re never surprised by the overwhelming generosity of the people of Western New York, and this is just another example of our community going above and beyond to benefit others,” said Cliff Benson, the chief development officer of the Buffalo Sabres. “We’re excited to have contributed to helping people enjoy one of the underrated advantages of a Buffalo winter.”
“The response from the hundreds of Western New Yorkers who participated was inspiring,” noted Gretchen Fierle, SVP Marketing & Communication for BlueCross BlueShield. “These donations will ensure that our community will stay engaged and healthy for the winter days ahead.”