April 5 , 2011/-KINGSTON, ON – The Kids 4 Kids tournament proceeds truly make a difference in the lives of children in our region.The tournament brings children together to play sports to keep them healthy and fit, on behalf of those kids who can’t attend.  

In 2007 the Kids 4 Kids tournament made a commitment to the University Hospitals Kingston Foundation to raise $125,000 for pediatric redevelopment projects for seriously ill children in Southeastern Ontario. 

At the 2011 tournament a final instalment cheque was presented to Denise Cummings, Executive Director UHKF, and Dr. Sarah Jones, Medical Director of Pediatrics at KGH, which fulfilled the five year pledge of $125,000.

Dr. Sarah Jones says "thank you" during Kids 4 Kids Tournament on ice opening ceremony Left to right: Denise Cummings, Executive Director UHKF; Gary "Big G" McColman, Kids 4 Kids Tournament co-chair; Dr. Sarah Jones, Medical Director KGH Pediatrics

The pediatric redevelopment project created a new 25-bed unit for inpatient pediatrics to provide patients with enhanced privacy and increased access to a state-of-the-art pediatric critical care unit.  The unit has been designed to address the emotional, physical and developmental needs of children including private isolation rooms and a large playroom. 

   Former NHL star Stephane Richer drops the puck at the opening ceremonies of the 2011 Kids 4 Kids Tournament

While raising funds for the pediatrics programs, the Kids 4 Kids Tournament plays a huge role in raising awareness of local charities that provide services to children and youth, including Kingston’s hospitals.  Each year, approximately 3,500 players attend the event.  More than 150 volunteers work tirelessly to keep the tournament running and to promote the designated charities to more than 7,000 participants and spectators attending.