Catholic Charities welcomed professional hockey players from the Adirondack Thunder for a special meet-and-greet at the Sunnyside Child Development Center in Troy on Tuesday, April 1.
Adirondack Thunder forward Andre Ghantous and defenseman Taylor Ford joined official mascot “Gunnar” to participate in a variety of interactive activities with children grades K through 5 attending Sunnyside Child Development Center’s after-school program.
The after-school program at Sunnyside Child Development Center in North Central Troy provides children in grades K through 5 with learning and recreational opportunities, as well as creative activities, that aid in the development of social and emotional skills. Under the umbrella of Catholic Charities’ Tri-County Services programs, which address the basic needs of youth in Rensselaer, Albany and Schenectady Counties, Sunnyside is helping children thrive.
Established in 1917 as a ministry of the Catholic Diocese of Albany, Catholic Charities helps an estimated 70,000 people each year across the 14 local counties that it serves, with the majority of these individuals receiving multiple services with a total reach of services going well beyond 70,000. The 501c3 agency offers a wide spectrum of services, from addressing basic needs such as food, clothing, and shelter; to more specialized support for the most vulnerable in our communities, including individuals with developmental disabilities, pregnant and parenting teens, the unemployed, victims of domestic violence, and the homeless.
The Thunder host their final homes games of the season this Friday and Saturday at Cool Insuring Arena and will honor their loyal supporters with Fan Appreciation Weekend. Tickets may be purchased by calling 518-480-3355 or online at ECHLThunder.com.