The skate exchange program has unveiled its new permanent skate donation bins, to be placed in all operating arenas throughout Greater Sudbury, including one at Tom Davies Square.

The new metal bins replace plastic bins that have been used by the program for the past nine years, and were made possible through contributions from regional Home Hardware Stores and Home Building Centres, and TyeDee Bin. Skater's Edge Source for Sports has also been an important supporter of the program through its ongoing donation of used skates and sharpening services, a press release stated.

“We are very proud to work with (these) community-minded businesses,” Désirée Chartrand, chair of the skate exchange committee, said. “Their contributions have brought more visibility and awareness to the program and ultimately will allow us to collect and redistribute more skates.”

The skate exchange committee of Sudbury is a collaborative partnership between a number of agencies and organizations in the City of Greater Sudbury, that share a common goal of making physical activity more accessible, and encouraging children and families to be winter active.

Since 2001, the program has collected gently-used skates from the community and redistributed them free of charge during various free skate pick-up days held throughout the winter. So far this season, the program has collected about 430 pairs of skates and redistributed more than 300 pairs within the community.

“With the current economic situation, families in Sudbury are in greater need now more than ever,” Dana Marshall, nutrition program co-ordinator for the Human League Association, said. “The skate exchange promotes positive recreation, which builds self-esteem, develops friendships, and lets not only children, but families explore new interests and have fun together.”

People, who have a pair of gently-used skates that aren't being used, are encouraged to drop them off in one of the new skate exchange bins. For more information about the program, phone 522-9200 ext. 223.