TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Tampa Bay Lightning players are helping make the holidays brighter for kids in need.
On Tuesday, players helped kids fill up their shopping carts with presents for the Bolts’ annual holiday-giving initiative with Metropolitan Ministries.
Some of the Tampa Bay Lightning’s biggest stars made a special appearance including Victor Hedman, Brayden Point, Erik Cernak, and Andrei Vasilevskiy.
Each player teamed up with a child to help fill their shopping cart with $300 worth of presents.
Player Erik Cernak helped 5-year-old Adrian pick out everything on his list after a tough year.
“It means a lot,” parent Shantae Culver said. “During the hurricane, we lost everything, clothes and all their toys that we had to throw out.
“Every single kid loves the toys, especially when you lose your favorite ones. You’re kind of sad, and you’re looking for something new so it’s a great opportunity for him to get new toys and start a new journey.”
In total, 25 kids took part in the shopping spree. The players provided the money for the event.
“It means everything to know they’re helping us out in the community,” Culver said. “It’s awesome for the kids to get whatever they want.”
