Huge collectibles donation brings new support for Calgary kids: ‘A true blessing’

A Calgary charity that helps a lot of local kids is getting a big boost. Hope Mission is celebrating an unusual donation that’ll bring new support for struggling families.

The agency is going to be auctioning off a wide range of sports and entertainment memorabilia donated by the widow of a longtime Calgary collector.

“When we went through it, we were absolutely stunned,” Hope Mission’s Tim Goodwin said.

The woman wishes to remain anonymous, but she gave clear instructions on what the proceeds from selling the collection should be used for.

“She wanted to make sure it went somewhere where it could benefit kids,” Goodwin said.

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Goodwin invited veteran auctioneer Bill Brown to check out the collection.

Brown’s company, Elevate Auctions, specializes in charity auctions.

“(This collection) is incredible. Some tremendous items,” Brown said. “It’s so nice to see it go to help the kids.”

Money raised by the sale would go toward a wide variety of youth support programs at Hope Mission.

“Our after-school programs, there’s all kinds of sports equipment that we could make use of,” Goodwin said. “We’re never sure if or when supper’s going to happen at home, so we like to make sure they have supper with friends before they head out.”

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The auction, which will probably happen in April or May, will be online to open it up to buyers worldwide.

Brown says the collection could bring in about $50,000.

“You’ll also attract donors that want to support the charity that aren’t necessarily collectors, but if they see something they want, they’re going to be aggressive bidders,” Brown said. “So, you get the best of both worlds.”

Goodwin says proceeds from the sale will help Hope Mission provide support for about 400 kids every month.

“We’re incredibly grateful,” Goodwin said. “It really is a true blessing.”

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