(WNY News Now) – Leveling the Playing Field Expands Outreach, Distributes Free Sports Equipment Across Western New York.
CHEEKTOWAGA, NY – After expanding to Western New York in 2023, Leveling the Playing Field (LPF) is excited to announce today that it will begin distributing gently used sports equipment collected over the past year to organizations benefitting children across Western New York.
LPF aims to bridge the gap in youth sports participation by providing free equipment to schools, community programs, and nonprofit organizations. Over the past year, LPF, in partnership with the Buffalo Bills and Benderson Development, has collaborated with local partners, including Project Play Western New York, to gather sports gear from generous donors across the region. The response has exceeded expectations, with donations coming from individuals, schools, and local sports organizations. The collected equipment includes everything from baseball gloves and soccer balls to basketballs and tennis rackets.
“This is an exciting next step in our mission to ensure every child has the opportunity to enjoy the benefits of sports, regardless of their financial situation,” said Max Levitt, Founder and Executive Director of Leveling the Playing Field. “Our team has worked hard over the past year to gather thousands of pieces of equipment, and we are now ready to give them permanent homes with the children and organizations that need them the most in Western New York.”
The LPF Western New York warehouse was established last year at 79 Benbro Drive in Cheektowaga and will serve as the central hub for this distribution effort. Coaches, PE teachers, and community leaders can now request equipment for their programs, ensuring that kids have access to the necessary gear to participate in various sports without the financial burden of purchasing equipment. Research shows participation in youth sports leagues has decreased over time due largely to increasing costs. This initiative aims to change that.
LPF WNY plans to hold regular distribution events and collaborate with schools, community centers, and sports programs to reach as many children as possible.
Since 2013, LPF has provided over 2,000 programs in Baltimore, Philadelphia, Greater Washington, and Columbus with a combined $14 million worth of equipment.
To find out how to apply for equipment or learn how you can donate or volunteer, please visit www.levelingtheplayingfield.org, or contact:
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