Hollywood-based Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital Foundation is thrilled to have scored once again by re-signing Florida Panther Aleksander “Sasha” Barkov as part of their philanthropic alliance.
The Finnish-Russian professional ice hockey captain and center will do more than just “light the lamp” with each NHL goal he scores this season. Barkov, now in his eighth season with the notorious South Florida team, will help kids being treated at Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital (JDCH).
Signifying his jersey number (16), the generous South Florida resident NHL player will continue to contribute $1,600 for each goal he scores. Additionally, he will also provide a suite at the BB&T Center for each home game to support those connected to Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital.
During the COVID-19 shortened 2019-2020 season Barkov scored 20 goals and contributed $32,000 to Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital Foundation. During the NHL’s last full season (2018-19), he set the Panthers single season scoring record with a 96-point campaign that included 35 goals.
“Sasha has been a great ambassador for ‘Joe D.’ and a credit to the South Florida community,” said Kevin Janser, senior vice president and chief development officer for Memorial Healthcare System. “He has selflessly shared his time and brought joy to those impacted by illness. We’re proud to have him on our team.”
Besides being a distinguished benefactor, Barkov enjoys visiting and meeting the children, patients, caregivers, and administrators. He has already made several trips to tour the expanding pediatric facility. With each visit, he brings gifts, signs autographs, and poses for photos putting a smile on everyone’s face which is the best kind of hat trick.
“I am happy to continue my support of JDCH for the 2020-21 NHL season,” said Barkov, affectionately called “Sasha” by family and friends. “Seeing the smiling kids, their families, and the hospital staff at each game last season was uplifting and I am looking forward to that again. I’m also hopeful that I’ll soon be able to visit the children’s hospital again once the pandemic is under control.”
