"Basically we're trying to bridge the gap between the desire to play and the ability to play," he says.
Carkner is involved in the NHL Players' Association "Goals and Dreams Fund" -- a group of players that donate money to buy equipment for children in need.
Thousands of dollars for equipment
Around $9,000 dollars from the fund will now go to young players there for helmets, skates, and pads.
"There are less fortunate kids that have parents that say, 'No, you're not playing hockey this year because we simply can't afford it," says Hans Hutten, of the North Dundas Minor Hockey Association.
"Something like this, with the equipment, is great."
Kids say all should have the right to play
On average, it costs more than $1,000 dollars per player for hockey families each season, after equipment, registration fees, and travelling expenses.
Two Winchester twins think all kids should have the right to play.
"It's important because the other people that don't have much stuff will get the chance to play hockey," said nine-year-old Eric Armstrong.
Added his brother Josh, "Now they have the chance to play hockey like the other kids, so they can be equal."
With a report from CTV Ottawa's Kristy Kirkup
