The 2023 House of Hearts raised over $114,000 for Project Joy, which focuses on feeding kids

A record setting year for the 2023 House of Hearts at the Duluth Curling Club. The celebrity bonspiel just marked its 20th anniversary, and in a big way.

The fundraiser brings in world class skips who then play with curlers who come from across the country.

Joe Polo, one of the skips and a member of the House of Hearts committee, said it felt so good to be back after a long break during the pandemic.

“It’s great to be able to see everybody again. It’s a cause that’s near and dear to my heart, so it’s a great deal,” he said.

Jen Gates, another celebrity skip, added, “It’s one thing to curl because you love it. But because this supports Project Joy, we are all very proud to be part of this event.”

Together, the group raised over $114,000 for Project Joy. Project Joy aims to address childhood hunger, and was started in honor of Duluth Hall of Famer Patrick Plys.

His son, Chris Plys, won the bonspiel with his team.

Project Joy plans on starting a new initiative this summer with Union Gospel Mission called Project Joy bags. Those bags will help keep kids fed over the weekends.

Many local and regional businesses helped support the bonspiel. And for the first time, the opening night event was open to the public. Clyde’s Malting Building was the venue.

For more info: https://hohduluth.org/