HOULTON, Maine — The Houlton football team will be able to purchase new helmets this fall thanks to a grant from U.S. Cellular.
The Houlton Football Association received a $700 grant as part of the U.S. Cellular Community Connections program to purchase new “Speed Flex” helmets. Exactly how many helmets can purchased was not determined.
“It is awesome that we are a fortunate recipient of this grant that will allow us to purchase a few top of the line helmets for our players,” said Jon Solomon, assistant coach of the Houlton varsity football team. “This is another great example of the Houlton Football Association finding a way to provide our players with the best equipment to help keep them safe on the field.”
The Houlton Football Association applied for the grant on U.S. Cellular’s website, and within 14 days rallied friends, families and supporters to complete online activities that earned the association the award.
“Groups like Houlton Football provide meaningful experiences for youth in our community every day,” stated Matt Kasper, director of sales for U.S. Cellular in New England, in a press release. “We’re proud to be able to support the essential work they do, and it’s inspiring to see the community back them through this program and beyond.”
The Community Connections program provides sponsorship support to youth groups such as football teams, Little League baseball teams, marching bands, youth cheer squads and a variety of other groups.
“We want our kids to have the safest gear possible,” said Jeannie Tapley of the Houlton Football Association. “The Community Connections program allowed us to raise funds for new helmets for each player on the team. The ability to raise the funds virtually was a tremendous help given our current situation and we are so thankful to everyone that helped support us.”
