Medicine Hat Family Service announces fundraiser event

By MEDICINE HAT NEWS on August 27, 2025.

newsdesk@medicinehatnews.com

A local organization dedicated to providing affordable counselling to the community announced it is moving forward with the third annual Lettuce Smash! Memorial Scrimmage and Social held in memory of Leslie McLennan, a former captain of the MHC Rattler’s soccer team.

Medicine Hat Family Service is hosting the fundraising event Sept. 6 with all proceeds going toward mental health initiatives in the region in honour of McLennan’s legacy.

The event kicks off with a friendly co-ed soccer scrimmage at Medicine Hat College starting at noon, followed by fans cheering on the Rattlers during their home opener planned for 2 p.m.

Following the action on the pitch, the event will continue at 5 p.m. with a social and fundraiser event held at Rustic Kitchen and Bar, where there will be a 50/50 raffle.

During the inaugural event held in 2023, more than $3,500 was raised to help fund mental health programs and services for individuals and families in the community.

McLennan grew up in Medicine Hat and earned a full soccer scholarship to the University of Regina where she graduated with a degree in kinesiology.

She also obtained her Class 1 drivers licence and worked in the male dominated oil and gas industry.

McLennan, known by family and friends as a bright and accomplished young woman, was a victim of suicide in 2022 after struggling with a mental health crisis.

The theme of the fundraiser is, “Let’s smash the stigma, Lettuce Smash.” Donations for the fundraiser can be made by visiting the Medicine Hat Family Service Facebook page.

11
-10