The Columbus Blue Jackets Foundation has awarded more than $1 million in grants to central Ohio nonprofit and youth hockey organizations for the 2026-27 season, the foundation announced before the Blue Jackets hosted the Toronto Maple Leafs at Nationwide Arena.
The grant partners and projects funded this season reflect the foundation’s work across the region, supporting programs that expand access to education, promote active lifestyles, advance pediatric cancer care and grow the game of hockey for young players who might not otherwise get a chance to skate.
To celebrate the recipients, the foundation hosted a special reception presented by Jet’s Pizza ahead of the Maple Leafs game, bringing together the organizations that will put the money to work in neighborhoods, schools, rinks and hospitals across central Ohio during the coming season.
Since its inception in 2000, the foundation has contributed more than $18.5 million to nonprofit organizations and youth programs across the region, funded through the generosity of fans, corporate partners and players, according to the announcement.
“Every grant awarded represents an opportunity to create meaningful experiences and greater access for children and families across central Ohio,” said Tara Battiato, executive director of the Blue Jackets Foundation and senior director of community development for the club. She said the work ranges from building playgrounds where kids can be active to supporting literacy programs and growing the sport.
The funding is organized around the foundation’s four key pillars: health and safety, pediatric cancer, education, and the growth and development of youth hockey. Within those areas, grants are aimed at projects that remove barriers, promote inclusion and help young people thrive on and off the ice.
For families across Columbus and its suburbs, the announcement is a reminder that the money raised around Blue Jackets games does not stay inside the arena. It flows back into community programs that many local children use during the school year and the hockey season alike.
The foundation said the 2026-27 grants continue a commitment that has made it one of central Ohio’s leading community funders over the past quarter-century, with more projects from this round expected to roll out in the months ahead.