Detroit City Wire

On a recent Tuesday evening, the Detroit Red Wings, Detroit Tigers, and Meijer collaborated to bring joy to 50 children from the Detroit Police Athletic League (PAL). The annual Hometown Holiday Assist event took place at a Meijer store in northwest Detroit.

Red Wings assistant coach Jay Varady, along with players including captain Dylan Larkin, Moritz Seider, Lucas Raymond, Patrick Kane, Jeff Petry, Joe Veleno, Tyler Motte, Christian Fischer, Albert Johansson, Simon Edvinsson, Justin Holl, Jonatan Berggren and goalie Alex Lyon attended. Tigers alumni Lance Parish and Dan Petry also participated. Daniella Bruce of Red Wings/Tigers Broadcast was present as well.

Ryan Gustafson, President and CEO of Ilitch Sports + Entertainment (IS+E), expressed the organization's commitment to community involvement. “We care so much for this community,” he said. “Around the holidays in particular...bring joy and smiles to their faces.”

Each child received $250 for shopping at Meijer and enjoyed a Little Caesars pizza party along with a holiday T-shirt.

Dylan Larkin shared his thoughts on the event: “Christmas can be a great time with family...picking out Legos or whatever they wanted made their day and mine.”

Moritz Seider added his perspective: “It’s obviously a great cause to help...I see more on our guys’ faces.”

Detroit PAL works year-round with over 10,000 young athletes. This non-profit celebrated its 55th anniversary this year. Fred Hunter of Detroit PAL noted the importance of such partnerships: “When you can add something special during the holidays...giving something for the benefit of kids and their families.”

Jonatan Berggren highlighted the significance of these events: “You understand how much these sports mean to Detroit...it’s great to do this.”