Helmets for Hardy to make comeback appearance

A project handing out free helmets to children in Yellowknife will return for a surprise sixth year.

Helmets for Hardy was thought to have come to a close after its fifth event in 2017, with funding running low.

The program was established by Ed and Jackie Hardy following the death of their son, Josh, in 2012.

Josh passed away at the age of 18 after suffering a fractured skull while skateboarding without a helmet. The Hardy family has since campaigned for NWT youth to have access to, and wear, head protection during similar activities.

Last June, the family held what was billed as the final giveaway. However, on Wednesday the project posted via its Facebook page: “Well, we are going to have the helmet giveaway this year!”

Helmets for Hardy says additional cash to hold a new event has come from the Gary Robinson Memorial Fund, the Elks Lodge, and the Yellowknife Community Foundation.

Dates of this year’s helmet giveaway are yet to be confirmed.