Sports
Hoboken Biz Donates $30K For Jersey City Soccer Program
How many soccer balls and athletic equipment can $30K buy? Hudson County youth soccer players will get a chance to find out.
HOBOKEN, NJ — A Hoboken-based e-commerce retailer recently made a $30,000 equipment donation to Jersey City Recreation Department’s JCFA Travel Soccer Academy and Shoot for the Stars Recreation Soccer program.
The donation was unveiled last month at a free soccer clinic for Jersey City youth, and facilitated by Bear’s charitable partner, Good Sports, according to a company news release.
The JCFA Travel Academy and Shoot for the Stars Recreation Soccer programs offer over 400 youth ages 3-19 the opportunity to learn and enjoy the game of soccer in a fun, safe environment. The program is free for Jersey City residents, and also offers a “pathway to college” component for gifted student athletes who aspire to play soccer at the collegiate level and beyond.
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The $30,000 donation equates to over 1,200 pieces of new soccer equipment, including new soccer balls, agility ladders, shin guards, travel soccer goals and uniforms. The donation will also provide the tools needed to further the expansion of the all-girls soccer program.
“We are humbled by this generous donation, which couldn’t come at a better time,” said Daniel Ali, director of JCFA Travel Soccer Academy and Shoot for the Stars Recreation Soccer. “We are heading into our fall season, and aiming to grow our girls program two-fold.”
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“As a Hudson County parent, I understand the significant role that free recreational sports programs play for families within the community,” said Scott Paladini, CEO and founder of Bear. “The benefits of leading a healthy, active lifestyle often extend far beyond the playing field. But before children can begin reaping those benefits, they first need the right tools and encouragement to give sports a try.”
In January 2017, Bear pledged 1% of all net proceeds to Good Sports, a Boston-based non-profit organization. Over the past 14 years, Good Sports has worked with corporate partners to donate over $22 million worth of new sports and fitness equipment to various organizations committed to helping kids stay active.
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Photo: Bear Mattress
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