Oxford City Stars are the latest club to spread some Christmas joy after visiting the Oxford Children’s Hospital to hand out presents to young patients.
Members of the Trust’s Young People’s Executive, YiPpEe, helped players from the NIHL1 South club hand out presents on the wards.
YiPpEe members are aged 12 to 18 who have either been in hospital themselves, or have a relative or friend who has been in hospital, so all have some idea what it’s like.
Clubs across the various leagues have organised a series of events in recent weeks to collect toys and gifts for children, or food items which might make Christmas a little easier for local families in need of support.
Stars’ Community Officer Shane Moore said: “As a local team, we decided the Children’s Hospital was a great cause that we wished to support.
“With the backing of major companies, Sega has donated activate books, joke books, collectable Sonic figures and soft toys for the kids, while Mattel and Fisher Price have donated a great mixture of toys, including Barbie Dolls, Hot Wheel track sets and so much more.
“Intel has also given us eight Kurio2 Education computers to keep the kids entertained during their stay, and we’re offering the children and their family free tickets to one of our games and some team merchandise.”
Christine Turner, Senior Play Specialist at the Children’s Hospital, added: “The Stars came last year and the children loved it.
“It is fantastic to have such support from our local ice hockey team and it was great to have them here again.”
