Oilers’ community foundation announces donation matching effort to mark 25th anniversary

The Edmonton Oilers Foundation says it will match every $25 donation made until Jan. 24.

The philanthropic arm of the city’s National Hockey League team is pledging to match donations to help mark its 25th anniversary.

The Edmonton Oilers Community Foundation announced it will match each $25 donation made from Wednesday through Jan. 24, when the team plays the Washington Capitals in its 25th home game of the regular season, up to $1 million.

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Each donor of $25 can vote for one of five charitable causes their matched contributions will support and will be entered into a draw to be one of 25 people chosen to meet Oilers players.

“Our mission has always been to give back to kids and families in need, and this initiative is another way to continue that work,” Corey Smith, the foundation’s board chair, said in a media release.

Over the years, the foundation and the team have helped raise more than $40 million for cancer care efforts, committed more than $21 million to assist several youth sport delivery programs, supported initiatives for disadvantaged children and aided more than 100 food banks.

Since 2001, the foundation has given more than $114 million to charitable organizations and minor hockey programs.