Born in the midst of the SARS outbreak in 2003, the Midget Jr. “A” Scarborough Ice Raiders, now 16-years-old, are now old enough to understand the impact an epidemic can have on a community.

“The COVID-19 pandemic is close to my family’s heart as I work as a Respiratory Therapist and all of my colleagues are directly on the frontlines,” explained parent Asfiya Qureshi who volunteers with an organization called Conquer COVID-19.

When Conquer COVID-19 put a call out for baby monitors, Qureshi was quick to get the entire Ice Raiders team behind the initiative.

“My kids jumped on it. The idea to ask the team if they wanted to donate came to mind.  We put the call out and the entire team was supportive,” said Qureshi.

Baby monitors, like the ones the Ice Raiders collected, are currently being used in hospitals to allow doctors to monitor patients who are in isolation with COVID-19. Members of the Ice Raiders purchased and delivered the monitors to the Scarborough Hospital through the team-driven drive. The Ice Raiders are looking to challenge other GTHL teams to give back to the community through Conquer COVID, stating the organization has a list of needs based on region.

“Anything you can give helps. Every piece of equipment is essential right now,” emphasized Qureshi. “No donation is too small.”

Teams looking to get involved can do so by visiting conquercovid19.ca.