Andrew Mangiapane and the Flames Launch Mange’s Breadsticks Program

The Calgary Flames and Andrew Mangiapane are proud to announce the launch of a new community program, Mange’s Breadsticks, aimed at supporting the underprivileged youth of Calgary.

A Program for the Underdogs

Growing up, Andrew Mangiapane faced many challenges. He was often told he was too small or not good enough to play hockey. However, Andrew’s determination and hard work led him to become a successful NHL player.

Through Mange’s Breadsticks, Andrew wants to share his passion for hockey with the underprivileged youth of Calgary. He believes that every child deserves the opportunity to learn and play the game, regardless of their background or financial situation.

Support from the Flames Foundation and Calgary Italian Open Society

The Flames Foundation and the Calgary Italian Open Society have generously matched Andrew and Claudia Mangiapane’s funding for the program. This support will ensure that Mange’s Breadsticks has the resources it needs to make a real difference in the lives of the youth it serves.

Partnership with the Youth Centres of Calgary in Ogden

Mange’s Breadsticks will be operated in partnership with the Youth Centres of Calgary (YCC) in Ogden. YCC is a non-profit organization that provides a safe and welcoming space for at-risk youth in the community.

The program will run on Mondays and Wednesdays from October to March, and will provide youth with the opportunity to learn the basics of hockey, as well as participate in other activities such as arts and crafts, and homework help.

Andrew Mangiapane’s Personal Visit

Andrew Mangiapane will make his first visit to the program on Wednesday, October 25th at 3:30 p.m. He will meet with the youth, participate in activities, and share his story of overcoming challenges to achieve his dreams.

Quotes

“Our vision is to play a role in breaking down barriers in the game of hockey and supporting kids who are told they can’t, they don’t have access, or that hockey is too expensive,” said Andrew Mangiapane. “Hockey should be available to everyone who loves the game or wants to learn. Calgary has given so much to Claudia and I, and we want to show our love back to this supportive community and help all the underdogs out there play the game we love so much.”

“Thousands of athletic Calgary kids live in poverty and chaos, and lack what they need to thrive in school, in the playground, and in life. They do not have access to organized hockey and to learn the love of the game that many of their peers enjoy,” said Jane Wachowich, Executive Director of Youth Centres of Calgary. “We also know that the game of hockey keeps vulnerable kids out of harm’s way, allows them to build confidence and drive, and opens doors to opportunities that can help them break the cycles of poverty in their own lives. Those are the kids that we see every day at Youth Centres of Calgary. Thanks to Andrew and Claudia we can give these kids a chance to experience the joy of the game. A leveling of the playing field. Thank you, Andrew and Claudia along with the Flames Foundation. You are making our kids’ dreams come true.”

More Information

To learn more about Mange’s Breadsticks, visit the Flames Foundation website at www.calgaryflamesfoundation.com.

For more information about the Youth Centres of Calgary, visit their website at www.youthcentresofcalgary.org.