TAMPA — The Lightning Foundation and Vinik Family Foundation are donating a combined $2 million toward Hurricane Ian relief efforts, the organization announced Friday.
Each will donate $1 million toward recovery from the storm, which devastated southwest Florida this week.
“This is a tragic situation for many families and communities across the state of Florida, but especially so in the southwest region of the state,” Lightning owner Jeff Vinik said in a statement. “In times like these, the most important thing we can do is support one another, and we hope this donation will help families recover and rebuild in the months to come.”
As Ian approached Florida’s Gulf Coast, the Lightning postponed their first two preseason home games and relocated training camp to Nashville, Tennessee, where they are playing two exhibition games against the Predators. The team plans to return to Tampa Bay after Friday night’s game at Bridgestone Arena.
The Lightning also teamed with the Predators for a charity auction to benefit relief efforts. The two-day auction, which included signed jerseys and a trip to watch Tampa Bay host Nashville later this season, raised more than $12,000, according to the Lightning.
The Glazer family, which owns the Bucs, announced on Thursday that they are donating $1 million to relief efforts. Quarterback Tom Brady pledged an unspecified donation to the Florida Disaster Fund and urged others in the state to do their part to help.
NOTE: The Lightning also announced that the postponed preseason home games originally scheduled for this past Wednesday and Thursday at Amalie Arena will not be rescheduled. Fans are advised to contact their original point of purchase for refunds and other ticketing options. The Lightning will play their final two preseason games — Oct. 6 at Florida and Oct. 8 at home vs. Florida — as scheduled.
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