New investment will support local organizations in 32 cities, with Ottawa kickoff event recognizing three community groups advancing accessibility in hockey
Amazon Canada and the National Hockey League Players’ Association (NHLPA) have announced an expansion of their partnership, committing more than $1 million CAD to local community organizations across 32 North American cities during the 2026–2027 NHL season.
The announcement was made in Ottawa, where Amazon and the NHLPA kicked off the expanded initiative by recognizing three local organizations working to make hockey more accessible and inclusive: the Ottawa Power Wheelchair Hockey League, Canadian Blind Hockey Association, and Next Shift Canada. Each organization received a $25,000 CAD donation to support their programs.
The expanded partnership builds on work that began in 2024, focused on delivering local impact through collaboration with NHL players and community organizations.
“This expansion of Amazon's partnership with the NHLPA will support hyperlocal community projects in 32 cities across North America,” said Brian Huseman, Vice President of Public Policy and Community Engagement at Amazon. “Our $1 million CAD commitment will further demonstrate that creating positive community impact requires not only investment in jobs and infrastructure, but meaningful local engagement and support for the causes that matter most.”
Through the partnership, NHL players will visit Amazon facilities in all 32 cities throughout the 2026–2027 season, connecting with employees and presenting donations to organizations making a difference in their communities. The three Ottawa-based organizations recognized at the launch event each play a unique role in growing the game and removing barriers to participation.
The Ottawa Power Wheelchair Hockey League provides opportunities for athletes with physical disabilities to compete and connect through sport, while the Canadian Blind Hockey Association continues to expand access to hockey for Canadians who are blind or visually impaired. Next Shift Canada focuses on creating more inclusive pathways into the sport for underrepresented communities.
“We sincerely thank Amazon and the NHLPA for their $25,000 CAD donation. This support is transformative; it will inspire the next generation, break down barriers, and help ensure that the future of hockey is more diverse, inclusive, and representative of everyone who loves the game,” said Mack Janes, Next Shift Hockey.
Members of the NHLPA were on hand in Ottawa to mark the announcement and connect with local organizations.
“It’s always special to give back to the communities that support us as players and I’m thrilled to be a part of this incredible announcement between the NHLPA and Amazon today,” said NHLPA member Matthew Schaefer. “This partnership is going to benefit charities all across the league and having the chance to see the impact firsthand here today in Ottawa is very special.”
“Hockey has always been connected to community, and this partnership between the NHLPA and Amazon is another example of how we as players can give back and connect with people off the ice,” added NHLPA member Tom Wilson.
Through the 2025–2026 NHL season, the partnership delivered more than $60,000 CAD in donations in Canada and more than $230,000 USD in the United States, supporting organizations that are already seeing tangible impact – from expanding facilities to increasing access to programming.
The expanded initiative will build on that momentum, reaching more communities and strengthening connections between players, Amazon employees, and local organizations
From coast-to-coast, these partnerships reflect a shared goal: strengthening communities and supporting the organizations that are making a real impact where it matters most.
