Road Hockey Tournament Supports Mental Wellness

Support for mental health is a top-five need identified in Halton and Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, according to the United Way and 211 Ontario. Maintaining positive mental health is essential for overall well-being at all stages of life. Through the generosity of donors, organizations like the United Way can sustain a network of frontline services, ensuring people have access to quick and affordable mental health and crisis care when they need it most.

In 2023-2024, services provided through United Way Halton & Hamilton helped to improve the mental health of 73,364 people and supported their ability to better handle life’s challenges. To aid in the delivery of much-needed assessments, counseling, and treatment by United Way agencies, the team at Ford of Canada raises funds through the Peter Klosch “Have a Ball” Road Hockey Tournament.

Remembering Peter Klosch

Peter was a colleague and a friend to many Ford of Canada team members for many years. Fourteen years ago, the team lost Peter, who died by suicide. It was a very difficult time for everyone who knew him and loved him. To keep his memory alive, the Peter Klosch “Have a Ball” Road Hockey Tournament committee continues to organize this meaningful annual event.

“It’s a way for us to remember Peter and carry on his legacy  ̶  he was a special person who gave so much of himself to others. Next year will mark 15 years, and our dedication to raising awareness and funds for mental health continues to get stronger,” said Scott Kuzma, vehicle line marketing manager, Ford of Canada. “Thank you to everyone who once again supported the planning of the event, participated, and donated.”

A Ball Hockey Tournament and So Much More

Although the ball hockey tournament is a competitive and lively part of the day, there is a little something for everyone looking to participate and donate.

• The “Not So Silent Auction” ran for four days, offering an incredible variety of items to bid on, including autographed sports jerseys, tickets for the Toronto Maple Leafs and Toronto Raptors, concert tickets, a bike, a barbecue, and more.
• Served by the leadership team, the “There Is No Such Thing as a Free Lunch” (because it’s $5) gathered team members in the cafeteria to enjoy time together over a meal.
• For those who were looking for a different kind of intense competition, bean bag toss (three tosses for $2) provided the chance to win some great prizes.

This year, the event continued to raise awareness of the importance of mental health and raised $13,000.14 for the United Way Halton & Hamilton.

“We need to reduce the stigma around mental health and ensure that help is available to those who need it,” said Bev Goodman, president and CEO, Ford of Canada. “That really is the intent of the day – to remember and celebrate Peter, and also to continue the dialogue around something so important.”

Are You or Someone You Know Needing Support?

• Visit at.ford for resources (under the wellness tab at the top of the page).
• Reach out by dialing 211 — a free, confidential, 24/7 service available nationwide in Canada. Accessible in over 150 languages via phone, web, and text, 211 connects individuals to the appropriate information and services. Every day, this helpline offers a lifeline to care and resources for those in vulnerable circumstances, including seniors, newcomers, Indigenous communities, and beyond.
• The Government of Canada highlights multiple resources here  ̶  Mental health support: get help - Canada.ca  ̶  including:
  • Call or text 9-8-8. Support is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week through 9-8-8: Suicide Crisis Helpline.
  • Help is also available through Kids Help Phone (1-800-668-6868) and the Hope for Wellness Help Line (1-855-242-3310).