In February 2025, we installed SEVENTEEN Smilezones at Strollery Children’s Hospital, Edmonton, AB! The Smilezones are in the Pediatric Diabetes Clinic – Waiting Room, Hallways, Treatment Rooms… Psychiatry Mental Health Outpatient Clinic – Treatment Room and Waiting Room. They include: fresh paint, colorful murals, sensory and interactive gaming elements, custom cabinetry and more! Stay tuned for more details!
Thank you to our generous donor, NHLPA Goals and Dreams for making this project possible!
“We are incredibly grateful for the generous donation from the Smilezone Foundation and NHLPA Goals & Dreams. The thoughtful clinic design helps children feel safe, engaged, and comfortable, helping them stay connected to their care and reducing stress during visits,” said Christine Westerlund, Senior Operating Officer, Stollery Children’s Hospital, Alberta Health Services. “By improving the emotional and physical experience of medical appointments, children and families feel valued and supported in their health care journey, which ultimately leads to better long-term outcomes.”
“NHLPA Goals & Dreams is proud to work with Smilezone Foundation on one of the largest single donations ever made by the players’ charity to brighten 14 rooms in two areas of the hospital at Stollery Children’s Hospital in Edmonton,” said Marty Walsh, NHLPA Executive Director. “These displays will bring smiles to patients and families for years to come as they see some of their favourite Oilers players and other hockey and nature themes throughout the different Smilezone rooms. Together with Smilezone Foundation and Adam Graves, who was an instrumental member when NHLPA Goals & Dreams was founded in 1999, this is a fitting way to celebrate 25 years of NHL players giving back in their communities.”
About NHLPA Goals and Dreams: The Players’ charitable initiative supports grassroots hockey programs by providing new equipment to help deserving youth play the game. For 25 years, NHLPA members have donated gear in over 40 countries, contributing over $26 million to grow hockey. Each year, NHLPA ambassadors also visit North American cities to meet young fans, distribute gear, sign autographs, and offer advice.
About Strollery Children’s Hospital: The Stollery Children’s Hospital in Edmonton, Alberta, established in 2001, is the region’s only pediatric hospital, specializing in complex care and research for infants, children, and youth.
