N.J. Devils Players Act Like Angels In North Jersey

The NJ Devils roster has been acting like angels in North Jersey lately.

Last week, six top hockey prospects from New Jersey’s only professional sports team traded hockey sticks for hammers, volunteering at Habitat for Humanity - Newark’s Harmony Point project.

The players – who were in Newark for the Devils development camp – lent a hand on July 13 at the nonprofit’s Harmony Point site, which aims to build 23 homes around 100 Hawthorne Avenue.

“Our Harmony Point project is the most ambitious construction in our history and will enable Habitat Newark to serve more low-income families,” said Habitat Newark CEO Jeffrey Farrell. “We’re delighted to have support from the New Jersey Devils.”

HOSPITAL VISITS

In December, several Devils players visited the pediatric wards of several local hospitals following a morning practice session at Codey Arena at South Mountain in West Orange.

The list of hospitals included:

• Children’s Specialized Hospital, Mountainside, NJ
• Hackensack University Medical Center, Hackensack, NJ
• Morristown Memorial Hospital, Morristown, NJ
• Overlook Hospital and Valerie Center, Summit, NJ
• Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, New Brunswick, NJ
• Saint Barnabas Medical Center, Livingston, NJ
• Saint Joseph’s Hospital, Paterson, NJ
• University Hospital, Newark, NJ

“When you get a chance to do these things, it’s more or less to put a smile on somebody’s face,” defenseman Damon Severson said. “I know we had a few patients excited to see us. Anytime you come to a hospital and make somebody happy, that’s going to make your day.”

• See related article: NJ Devils Visit Newark Hospital To Cheer Up Patients

HELPING THE ANIMALS

In April, goaltender Cory Schneider and center Adam Henrique hosted an autograph signing fundraiser to benefit the Liberty Humane Society in Jersey City.

According to LHS staff, for the past two years, Schneider and his wife, Jill, have been active volunteers who have fostered many special needs animals in their home. They are currently fostering “Bushmills” – a deaf and blind kitten who came from a hoarding situation in Jersey City. Jill is also an active volunteer and dog-walker at the shelter.

“My wife and are strong supporters of animal welfare and it’s awesome to take part in saving lives with LHS’s staff and volunteers,” Schneider said. “I’m proud to help raise money and awareness for this organization, which does so much good work for others.”

• See related article: NJ Devils To Appear At Hudson County Animal Shelter Fundraiser

Send local news tips, photos and press releases to eric.kiefer@patch.com

Photos: Jaffe Communications Inc.

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