Metro Militia Partner with Meals on Wheels

November, the month of Thanksgiving, is a perfect time to express gratitude by giving back and that is exactly what the Metro Militia 14UAA team will be doing! On Thanksgiving morning, the team will be distributing food to homebound older adults in partnership with Meals on Wheels of Staten Island. Meals on Wheels of Staten Island, Inc. is a private not-for-profit agency whose mission is to provide two nutritious meals each day to those 60 years of age or older who can no longer shop for or prepare their own meals. Players are assigned 2-3 homes to deliver meals to ensure that each recipient feels the warmth of the holiday spirit. The players will not only deliver food but also take a moment to connect with the seniors, offering a friendly smile and a brief conversation, which can make a significant difference in their day. Metro Militia players have been doing this for several years and it really provides them with a valuable experience while making a meaningful impact and giving back to the community.

Continuing in the giving back spirit, the team will be hosting a Teddy Bear Toss charity event at their game on December 14th at 5:50pm at the Staten Island Skating Pavilion. The Teddy Bear Toss is when all fans attending the game are invited to bring a new soft stuffed animal or toy which are then tossed on the ice after the game. All the items thrown are then collected and donated to Community Health Action of Staten Island, a community health center providing care for community members in need. The event is sponsored in part by Northwell Health’s Staten Island University Hospital, who donates about 500 teddy bears each year in addition to the ones collected at the game. The Metro Militia have participated in this charity event in years past and have collected hundreds of stuffed animals to donate. The players really look forward to this event, enjoying the chance to engage in something fun on the rink that extends its impact beyond it. They have the opportunity to give back and spread the holiday spirit while playing hockey—truly the best of both worlds.

The coaches are deeply committed to involving the players in volunteer work and charity events, emphasizing the importance of giving back. Head Coach, Anthony Giorgio says, “we always try to teach life lessons beyond the game and these opportunities give them a great chance to do that.” These events not only help with individual growth but also strengthen team bonds, and have proven to be immensely successful.