Nextshift Gear for Kids 2026

Saturday, August 22, 2026
10:00 AM – 12:30 PM
Behind the Gatineau Valley Arena & Heritage Hall

The Paugan Falls Rapids are excited to once again host our annual Nextshift Gear for Kids event, helping local families prepare for the upcoming hockey season by providing free access to gently used hockey equipment.

Families are invited to bring their children, where one of our volunteers will help them find the hockey equipment they need from a wide selection of donated gear, including skates, helmets, shoulder pads, gloves, hockey pants, sticks and more. Whether you're new to the game or simply looking to replace outgrown equipment, this community event is designed to help make hockey more accessible and affordable for local youth.

Since its launch, Gear for Kids has helped 85 young players throughout the Gatineau Valley get on the ice while keeping quality equipment in circulation within our community. Now entering its third year, the event continues to grow and support local hockey families.

The event is free to attend and open to all families. Equipment will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.

The Rapids would like to thank Nextshift and all of our community members who have donated equipment to make this event possible. Together, we're helping more kids play the game we love.

We look forward to seeing you on August 22!