SALEM, MA — Salem was one of 15 communities awarded a $1,000 donation from Wellpoint, Boston Bruins center Charlie Coyle and Franklin Sports to educate youth about the many benefits sports can have on their mental health.
The donation is to promote the benefits on kids’ mental health of youth sports by encouraging social connections, teaching teamwork and building community.
“Growing up in Weymouth, I have many friends and family who’ve taken the oath to protect and serve their communities as first responders,” Coyle said. “Having played sports my entire life — from youth sports to the pros — I know and appreciate the positive impact physical activity can have on children’s mental health by reducing stress, creating social connections, teaching teamwork, and building self-esteem.
“It’s an honor to continue my relationship with the Face-Offs for First Responders campaign to highlight to kids, first responders, and everyone about the importance of taking care of their mental health.”
The following Massachusetts communities will receive $1,000 each in Franklin Sports gift cards to purchase youth sports equipment: Framingham, Haverhill, Hingham, Lawrence, Lexington, Lowell, Lynnfield, North Andover, Salem, Somerville, Springfield, Stoneham, Wakefield, Weston, and Weymouth.
As part of its Face-Offs for First Responders campaign, earlier this year Wellpoint partnered with Coyle, Athlete-Driven Worldwide, 98.5 The Sports Hub Bruins Radio Network, the State Police Association of Massachusetts (SPAM), the Professional Fire Fighters of Massachusetts (PFFM), the New England Police Benevolent Association, and the Springfield Police Supervisors Association to raise awareness about the mental health resources available to first responders.