Police hosting free community skate today in Markham

York Regional Police has created a unique opportunity for children of all ages and their families to come together and skate with their members, including Chief Armand La Barge, and several celebrity guests for their second annual free community skate.

It's to take place today (Wednesday) at the Angus Glen Community Centre at 3990 Major Mackenzie Dr. East in Markham.

Celebrity guests will include members of the Toronto Maple Leafs Alumni, members of the Markham Waxers Provincial Junior A hockey team, 1988 Canadian Olympic figure skater Melanie Moffatt (formerly Cole), and the three York Regional Police mascots - Bobby the Bear, Bucky the Beaver and Morris the Moose. They will join La Barge and other members of the police on the ice. Members of the community are invited to attend at no charge.

Last year's event was attended by more than 500 children and their families.

This is also an opportunity to help those residents who are making due with less. Following the holiday season, local food banks are at their lowest levels and the need for basic food and grocery supplies is urgent. Police are encouraging attendees to bring a donation of a non-perishable food item in their post-holiday food drive.