The Buffalo Sabres have announced a $30,000 donation to the Family Justice Center of Erie County. The contribution aims to support the center’s mission to assist victims of domestic abuse in Western New York.
This funding was made possible through contributions from Sabres players, coaches, executives, their spouses, and the Buffalo Sabres Foundation. The presentation took place at KeyBank Center on Saturday. Those present included head coach Lindy Ruff and his wife Gaye; Laura Forton, wife of assistant general manager Jerry Forton; and Annie Malenstyn, wife of forward Beck Malenstyn.
Lindy Ruff stated: “The work being done by the Family Justice Center reflects what it means to make a positive impact in our community. We’re proud to support their commitment to helping individuals in situations involving abuse find support and understanding.”
Gaye Ruff added: “Lindy and I, along with Jerry and Laura Forton, have a tremendous amount of appreciation for the dedication shown by those at the Family Justice Center. They work to provide a safe and supportive place for all those going through domestic abuse. We want everyone to know that that life saving help is only one mile away from KeyBank Center. It is our hope that we can all work together to bring awareness to and to take a stand against domestic violence. Everyone matters and no one should have to navigate those challenges alone!”
In 2025, the Sabres also made a donation to the Family Justice Center led by the Ruff and Forton families as well as other team members’ spouses.
Jerry Forton commented: “My wife Laura and I have seen firsthand the tireless work being done by the Family Justice Center over the years. Their efforts truly save lives and are making meaningful progress toward breaking the cycle of abuse. The impact they have made in our community is profound and witnessing that influence has been an emotional reminder of just how important their work truly is. It is imperative that people are aware that any level of financial and public support we can provide goes a long way in helping them continue to make a difference.”
The Family Justice Center provides services such as crisis intervention, safety planning, legal assistance, counseling referrals, emergency shelter placement, language interpretation services, transportation assistance for survivors who need help reaching safety or accessing resources, education about healthy relationships for youth groups or schools across Erie County (https://www.fjcsafe.org/our-services).
Learn more about the Family Justice Center here (https://www.fjcsafe.org/about-us).
