Canucks’ Hockey Talks returns with mental health awareness at its core
The Vancouver Canucks will host their annual Hockey Talks event on January 19th at 7:00pm, featuring a game against the New York Islanders to raise awareness about mental health. This year's event, presented by lululemon, marks the 14th edition of the initiative.
The evening will include a ceremonial puck drop by Wes Rypien, brother of the late Canucks player Rick Rypien. The team will also donate $20,000 to Foundry BC as part of the event's community efforts.
Hockey Talks began in 2012 after the passing of Rick Rypien in 2011. The initiative was created to encourage open conversations about mental health within the hockey community and beyond. Since then, it has become a key event in the Canucks' season.
At Rogers Arena, fans can visit the Hockey Talks Market, where several mental health organizations will share resources. These include the Kelty Mental Health Center, Foundry BC, Coast Mental Health Foundation, Looking Glass Foundation, and The Ladd Foundation. The Canucks have scheduled other community-focused events throughout the season. These range from Firefighters Night and Lunar New Year celebrations to Autism Acceptance Night and Fan Appreciation Night, each highlighting different groups and causes supported by the team.
The January 19th game will feature both a tribute to Rick Rypien and a focus on mental health awareness. The $20,000 donation to Foundry BC will support their ongoing work in the province. Fans attending the match can engage with local organizations and learn more about available mental health resources.
