RMHC Winterland Invitational returns building on $1M in fundraising

Image credit: Ronald McDonald House Charities.

The Winterland Invitational tournament is set for another year of major fundraising.

Ronald McDonald House Charities massive hockey tournament is coming to Cold Lake, Bonnyville, Glendon, and Elk Point for its 6th tournament from Friday, Feb. 14 to Sunday, Feb. 16.

This means 48 teams from U9, U11, and U13 age categories are participating this year, in what has been a smashing success for the RMHC.

Since its inception in 2018, the Winterland Invitational has now raised over $1 million in support.

“The Ronald McDonald House Winterland Invitational is not just a hockey tournament—it’s a powerful community event that brings people together for a cause that truly matters,” says Oreen Skiba with RMHC Alberta in a press release. 

“For the U9, U11, and U13 minor hockey teams, this is an opportunity to compete, make memories, and support something much larger than the game itself. We see these kids try their hardest on the ice – and off the ice.”   

Marked with the distinctive striped hockey socks and stylish scarves, this year’s goal in $180,000.

Dozens upon dozens of volunteers converge to make this tournament happen, and with the added boost to hotels, restaurants, and local commerce, its sure to provide a jolt to the long weekend.

“From the hockey players to the families being supported, none of this happens without the support of an extraordinary group of volunteers,” said Skiba. “The volunteers for this tournament work all year to bring this event to the community and our gratitude for them knows no bounds.”

The Lakeland area has made use of this valuable resource over the years.

Marcy Farrer is a current volunteer with the event and shared the impact her family felt when they needed RMHC Alberta.  

“At 24 years old I was a full-time mother of two daughters. I had a 14-month-old, and a newborn in the Stollery Hospital. My husband worked shift work to maintain our expenses in Bonnyville while travelling back and forth for months as I relocated to the Ronald McDonald House in Edmonton,” she said. 

“We are blessed to have the opportunity as a family to give back to this amazing organization. In addition to reaching the goal of $1 million dollars donated, we wish to give our most heartfelt thank-you for being a lifeline in 2006 when we faced an unbelievable obstacle. Our family motto remains, ‘If one’s fighting, we’re all fighting!'”, shared Farrer.