In a strong show of support for families impacted by Hurricanes Helene and Milton, the Tampa Bay Lightning’s expanded ownership group, led by Doug Ostrover and Marc Lipschultz, has committed $1 million to local hurricane recovery efforts. The donation will be distributed across five local nonprofits focused on aiding affected communities with housing, food, clothing, and other essential resources.
“This is a devastating time for so many families throughout Tampa Bay,” Ostrover stated. “We’re committed to standing alongside those impacted by these recent storms and humbled to join in the sense of community and solidarity we have seen displayed throughout the region.” Lipschultz echoed this sentiment, adding, “We are inspired by the resilience of the Tampa Bay community and proud to join Jeff Vinik, the Lightning Foundation, and the entire organization in supporting relief efforts.”
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Standing Tampa Bay Strong with the Lightning
Ostrover and Lipschultz joined the Lightning ownership team on October 24 and have partnered with Jeff Vinik to bolster the team’s philanthropic work, led by the Lightning Foundation. Steve Griggs, CEO of Vinik Sports Group, highlighted the impact, stating, “With the support of our newly expanded ownership group, this $1 million donation will go directly to local organizations on the front lines of relief efforts. Together, we will continue to stand #TampaBayStrong and help our community recover from these devastating storms.”
The $1 million donation will benefit Metropolitan Ministries, Feeding Tampa Bay, University Area CDC, Gulf Coast Jewish Family & Community Services, and St. Pete Free Clinic. This contribution is part of the Lightning’s broader hurricane relief efforts, which includes an additional $2 million from Jeff Vinik and a $1 million #TampaBayStrong initiative by the Lightning Foundation, bringing the total commitment to $4 million.
A huge raffle for a good cause
In partnership with Moffitt Cancer Center, the Lightning’s #TampaBayStrong $1 million 50/50 raffle offers fans another way to support relief efforts. The raffle runs through December 29 with tickets available at Lightning home games or online at www.Bolts5050.com. The Lightning Foundation will match all raffle sales, awarding a minimum prize of $500,000 once the jackpot hits $1 million. If the jackpot exceeds $1 million, funds will continue to accumulate, raising additional support for the community.
As Tampa Bay rebuilds, the Lightning remains committed to helping neighbors recover and encourages everyone to join in the #TampaBayStrong initiative to foster hope and resilience across the region. Keep up with Lightning news and get tickets online.
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