Introduced in 2020 by the Penguins and Citrone 33, Break the Ice is a local movement in support of Hockey Talks. The first two years of the Break the Ice campaign aimed to break the stigma often associated with mental health. This year will further challenge Penguins fans to take positive action regarding their own mental wellness, as well as the mental health of their loved ones, and to assist in building a community that is mentally strong. Fans can share their efforts by joining the conversation on social media using the hashtags #BreakTheIce and #HockeyTalks.
Penguins players will wear Hockey Talks decals on their helmets and use branded warm-up pucks at the game on April 14 in support of mental health advocacy. The Penguins will also autograph specialty locker room nameplates, which will be included in the Penguins Foundation's auction at hockeytalks.givesmart.com through April 21 at 12:00 PM. Hockey Talks t-shirts will also be sold. Fundraising proceeds will support the Penguins Foundation's mental health initiatives.
All fans attending the game will receive a Penguins Bandana courtesy of Citrone 33, which encourages fans to take action by completing the Be There Certificate online, a program recently launched by Born This Way Foundation and Jack.org to teach participants how to maintain one's own mental health, recognize when someone is struggling and safely support them. Throughout PPG Paints Arena, local organizations will be on-site to share mental health resources with game attendees. Fans will also have the opportunity to learn more about the Be There Certificate and the upcoming Mental Health Action Day on May 19.
Fans may visit The Milkshake Factory on April 14 in support of Hockey Talks and the Break the Ice campaign. Area locations will be donating 15% of all proceeds to the Penguins Foundation's mental health initiatives.
Hockey Talks is a program that was inspired by Rick Rypien, former Vancouver Canucks forward, who tragically lost his battle with mental health issues in 2011. Today, 17 clubs across the league participate while sharing resources, stories and breaking the stigma about mental health issues.
Citrone 33 is a proud supporter of the mental health initiatives of the Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation. Citrone 33 works to improve the quality of life for all people by investing in pioneering efforts that advance health, build human capital and promote smart giving. Citrone 33's primary focus is on mental well-being and the Pittsburgh community. A signature initiative of Citrone 33 is EMBRACE Pittsburgh, a powerful movement to champion mental strength throughout the region. EMBRACE provides resources to reduce daily stress and promote mindfulness, empathy, and acceptance of yourself and others. To learn more, visit here.
To join the Penguins for the Hockey Talks Game, order your tickets here.
