The annual Guns N’ Hoses Charity Hockey Game is set to return to St. George’s Ice Rink on Jan. 19, pitting Aquidneck Island’s first responders against each other for a good cause. This year’s event will benefit a local Middletown boy battling medical issues and raise awareness for first responder mental health.
Doors open at 3 p.m., with the puck drop scheduled for 3:30 p.m. The game features police officers from Newport, Middletown, and Portsmouth facing off against firefighters from the same communities.
The police team enters the match with a three-game winning streak, looking to extend their dominance on the ice.
This year’s primary beneficiary is 3-year-old Rémi Vasallo, a Middletown resident who has faced significant health challenges since birth. Rémi was diagnosed with a complex congenital heart defect at just one week old, requiring multiple surgeries and extended hospital stays.
“Rémi’s first surgery was at four months old and his recovery was difficult,” the Middletown FOP Lodge 21 shared on Facebook. “His tiny body was severely compromised, but his incredible strength and fighting spirit pulled him through.”
After 10 months in the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit, Rémi returned home, requiring round-the-clock monitoring and assistance from the Middletown Fire Department.
“Over the past two years, Rémi has undergone additional surgeries and interventions, extended hospital stays, and faced other major complications,” the FOP Lodge added. “But time and again, his will to live and sheer determination have triumphed.”
In addition to supporting Rémi and his family, the event will partner with NoSolo Brand to donate a portion of the proceeds to the National Alliance on Mental Illness Rhode Island chapter (NAMI RI). This collaboration aims to raise awareness for mental health treatment of first responders.
The family-friendly event does not require tickets, but organizers suggest a donation of $10 per person or $20 per family at the door. Attendees can participate in various activities, including a “Chuck a Duck” competition for children and multiple raffle opportunities.
Food will be available for purchase on-site, provided by Hilltop Sports Snack Bar.
Due to anticipated high attendance, overflow parking will be available at the Surfer’s End lot, with a shuttle service running to and from the rink.
The Guns N’ Hoses Charity Hockey Game has become a beloved annual tradition on Aquidneck Island, bringing together the community to support local causes while enjoying a spirited match between the area’s first responders.
For more information and updates, visit the Facebook Event.
