Florida Panthers host blood drive, honor Stoneman Douglas high victims
Feb 22, 2018, 9:59 AM
#MSDStrong pic.twitter.com/RpfRAvjRGU
— Florida Panthers (@FlaPanthers) February 18, 2018
In the wake of the high school shooting that killed 17 in Parkland, Fla., the Florida Panthers are holding a blood drive Thursday in honor of the victims and survivors.
The drive will be held at the BB&T Center from noon until 7 p.m. leading into the Panthers’ game against the Washington Capitals.
Before the puck drops, the team will hold a moment of silence and a pre-game ceremony to remember the victims from Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. The Florida Panthers Foundation will also be accepting donations during the drive and the game — the team will match the money raised and give it to the Stoneman Douglas Victims Fund through the Broward Education Foundation.
Proceeds from Florida’s 50-50 raffle will also go to the fund.
The Panthers, who haven’t played in front of their home crowd since the tragedy, will wear MSD patches on their jerseys for the rest of the season. A limited number of patches will be up for sale at the arena, and all proceeds will go toward the Stoneman Douglas Victims Fund as well.
“It’s going to be an emotional night… Our guys know how important this situation is to the community.” -Coach Boughner pic.twitter.com/glpXaDQkq8
— Florida Panthers (@FlaPanthers) February 22, 2018
“What happened last week, when it hits close to home like that, it’s hard. You just want to help as much as you can.” -Roberto Luongo pic.twitter.com/OE68Tirfcg
— Florida Panthers (@FlaPanthers) February 22, 2018
“Tonight will be very difficult and very emotional for everyone in the building. We just want to lend a helping hand however we can.” -Mike Matheson pic.twitter.com/qsexZQRvou
— Florida Panthers (@FlaPanthers) February 22, 2018
