The Hockey Canada Foundation will be helping Canadian youth return to hockey through the establishment of a $1 million Assist Fund.

The Hockey Canada Foundation Assist Fund allows Canadians who meet the criteria and need a financial hockey assist to apply for up to $500 in registration fee reimbursements per player, provided the registration is with a Hockey Canada-sanctioned association.

“As a prominent national sports organization in the country, it’s Hockey Canada’s mission to lead, develop and promote positive hockey experiences,” said Tom Renney, chief executive officer of Hockey Canada. “It’s a goal that’s more important than ever, as COVID-19 has had a challenging impact on so many young people from coast-to-coast-to-coast.”

To further enhance the impact and support for local communities, donations are encouraged to the fund, with 100 per cent of all donated funds reaching players. The Hockey Canada Foundation will absorb all administration costs associated with the fund.

The fund-raising campaign has been endorsed by elite male and female veterans of Canada's national male, female and para hockey teams.

Among them is former Flames captain and NHL Hall of Famer Jerome Iginla.

Just announced, it's too soon to say what impact that will have upon local minor hockey players. The information will soon be posted on the website of the Cochrane Minor Hockey Association, says operations coordinator Shelley Javorsky.

More information on making an application or donation to the fund click here.