The Wood Buffalo Food Bank is getting a little boost thanks to some of the Keyano Huskies.

The men’s and women’s volleyball teams set up an online store where they sold ‘Huskies Strong’ merchandise to raise funds for the non-profit.

After last year’s flood forced them out of their practice space, and even some of the players out of their homes, the teams wanted to do some good.

“We wanted to make sure that the money raised, would give the maximum impact,” said Keegan Kuhr, Head Coach of the Keyano Huskies men’s volleyball team.

“The food bank isn’t just another local charity, it’s a vital community resource and many of our own students have used their service.  Especially during these times, we felt it was so important that we show our support.  The team members who organized were amazing, it all came from a place of wanting to help and wanting to make a difference in the community.”

Over three months, the store raised around $350 with Keyano executives matching the total.

“We know some of our students depend on both the Fort McMurray Food Bank and our own internal food bank,” said Fred Russell, VP of Academics.

“The fact that the volleyball teams have been so generous, we have decided to match their dollars for our student food bank.”

The hardwood floor has since been replaced in the gym at the Syncrude Sport and Wellness Centre, ready for the team’s 2021 season.