HAMILTON, ONT. – February 18, 2026 – Carmens Group and the Hamilton Tiger-Cats are proud to announce the return of Kicks for Kids for its 18th season in 2026. As the Tiger-Cats’ longest-running community initiative, the program continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and youth across Hamilton and Halton.
Since its inception, Kicks for Kids has transformed exciting moments on the football field into tangible support for local families. Through the program, more than 1,000 pairs of new running shoes have been provided to youth connected to United Way Halton & Hamilton-supported agencies. In 2025 alone, $2,500 was raised to support the initiative.
“At Carmens Group, we believe business has a responsibility to build the communities it operates in,” said Joe Mercanti, Chief Experience and Systems Officer, Carmens Group. “Kicks for Kids has become a cornerstone of that commitment. For 17 seasons, alongside the Hamilton Tiger-Cats and United Way, we’ve turned big moments on the field into real impact off the field and providing more than 1,000 pairs of shoes to local youth. A new pair of running shoes may seem simple, but to a child, it represents confidence, inclusion, and opportunity. We’re proud to continue investing in the next generation of Hamilton.”
Through this long-standing partnership with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats and United Way Halton & Hamilton, Carmens Group continues to remove barriers for young people in our region, ensuring they feel confident, included, and ready to participate fully in school, sports, and recreation.
How the 2026 Season Will Make an Impact
During the 2026 regular season, every successful field goal kicked at Tiger-Cats home games will help drive donations.
“Kicks for Kids is one of the most meaningful ways we give back to our community,” said Amanda Heeren, Manager of Community Partnerships & Player Relations, Hamilton Tiger-Cats. “It creates a direct impact for local youth by helping provide something essential, and we are proud to continue supporting this program.”
For each field goal over 40 yards, Carmens Group will donate $100 for every yard beyond 40, with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats matching the total contribution to double the impact.
For example, a 45-yard field goal will generate a $500 donation to Kicks for Kids.
This unique partnership connects community spirit with athletic achievement, turning game-day excitement into meaningful support for local youth and families across Hamilton and Halton.
A Meaningful End-of-Season Experience
At the conclusion of the season, children and youth connected to United Way Halton & Hamilton-supported agencies will be invited to participate in a special shoe shopping experience. Accompanied by Tiger-Cats players and representatives from Carmens Group, participants will select brand-new running shoes in an environment that celebrates community, confidence, and care.
Through Kicks for Kids, Carmens Group remains committed to building stronger communities across Hamilton and Halton. Together with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats and United Way Halton & Hamilton, we look forward to another season of turning big moments on the field into lasting impact off the field.