Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, has been awarded funding through the 2026 Kraft Hockeyville program, a move celebrated by the community as it continues to heal from a recent tragedy. The town, located in northeastern BC, was the site of a mass shooting just weeks ago, where eight people were killed and many more were injured.
The funding, part of the annual Hockeyville competition, will provide Tumbler Ridge with $50,000 to upgrade its arena. The town is also in the running to advance to the finals, where it could receive $100,000 as a runner-up or $250,000 and the chance to host an NHL pre-season game as the winner. Finalists will be announced on Saturday, with the winner determined by an online vote. Other communities receiving funding include Taber, Alberta; Haines Junction, Yukon; Blackstock, Ontario; and Scott, Quebec.
The announcement comes as the community grapples with the aftermath of the shooting, which deeply impacted many, including young hockey players. Maya Gebala, a local hockey player, was severely injured in the shooting. Her mother, Cia Edmonds, shared a poignant social media post about attending a Vancouver Canucks game with her family, an event that was both joyful and a stark reminder of Maya's absence and ongoing recovery. Edmonds mentioned that Maya's condition has been deteriorating.
The Hockeyville funding represents a beacon of hope for Tumbler Ridge, offering a chance to invest in a space that fosters community and healing through sport. The arena upgrade will provide a revitalized hub for residents, particularly the youth, as they rebuild and support one another in the wake of the tragedy.
