San Jose Sharks Spread Holiday Cheer with Gift Drive

San Jose, California – The San Jose Sharks wrapped up their Holiday Assist program in partnership with Family Giving Tree, making a significant impact on local families during the holiday season. This community initiative, which took place on December 23, aimed to support Bay Area children in need, ensuring they received gifts and festive experiences.

This year, Holiday Assist was powered by a $30,000 donation and the generosity of the local community. Nearly 1,500 children benefited from the program, which created opportunities for fans, players, and volunteers to come together in joyful service. Kevin Brown, Executive Director of the Sharks Foundation, emphasized the need for such support during this time of year, stating, ‘Holiday Assist meets families where they are, at a time of year that can feel especially heavy.’

The program featured three major components, including a toy collection campaign at Sharks Ice facilities across the Bay Area. Supporters donated toys, books, and essential items like bedding and toothbrushes. Attendees at the Sharks vs. Canucks game on November 28 also participated in a special pre-game collection drive, contributing to the effort.

Additionally, contributions were accepted online through wishdrive.org/sharks, where supporters donated 156 virtual items valued over $5,000. Community Relations Manager Stephanie Dubin-Combo noted the collaborative spirit of the effort, saying, ‘We had gifts donated at all three of our ice facilities, SAP Center, and online. The collection drive was a true demonstration of solidarity within the Sharks community.’

Behind the scenes, a dedicated volunteer crew met at the Family Giving Tree hub in Sunnyvale to wrap gifts. The event attracted staff from Team Teal, Sharks Foundation supporters, and even Sharks players, who participated in wrapping more than 1,000 gifts together.

The event concluded with a celebration at the Alma Community Center, where over 120 children and their caregivers received gifts from Sharks players, who greeted each family personally. Players such as Vincent Desharnais expressed their joy in giving back, stating, ‘The holidays are the best time of the year to give back… it’s really cool to see five guys here trying to bring smiles and joy during the holidays.’

With this initiative, the Sharks exemplified the collective effort to support local families, ensuring that the spirit of giving and community remains strong during the holidays.