Done with your skates and helmet? Donate them here

If you have used figure skates, hockey skates or helmets around the house that no longer fit (or maybe you've hung up your skates), now's your chance to donate them so someone else can give skating a try.

YNCU says its branches across Ontario are collecting donations of gently used hockey skates, figure skates, and helmets throughout the rest of 2023 as the credit union prepares to launch the second season of 'Motivate 2 Skate'.

The program began in the Sault in the fall of 2022 and expanded into Waterloo Region and Woodstock this past winter and spring.

It offers free skating lessons to international students at post-secondary institutions, as well as elementary students from Big Brothers Big Sisters.

Motivate 2 Skate is completely free for the participants, YNCU said in a news release.

Donations of used equipment will help YNCU continue to offer lessons and ensure even more people "have the chance to feel confident out on the ice".

“The Motivate 2 Skate program brought smiles to so many faces last season, and we’re so excited to hit the ice again this year,” said Archie Bonifacio, chief community officer at YNCU.

“Any equipment donations will go a long way to help the skaters learn new skills and get comfortable enjoying one of the best things our Canadian winters have to offer.”

YNCU asks that any donated skates and helmets come in usable condition.

Donations can be made locally at a collection drive being held at Station Mall this Thursday, Sept. 28, from noon to 7 p.m. in the centre court.

Anyone interested in dropping off a donation at one of the YNCU branches can also do so between now and the end of the year.

More information about Motivate 2 Skate and the skate and helmet drive is available here.