The New Jersey Devils family is trading the ice for a “Winter Woodland” next week to honor those who serve. On Feb. 26, the wives and girlfriends of New Jersey Devils players will partner with the national nonprofit Operation Shower to host a celebratory baby shower for 20 local military moms-to-be at the Prudential Center.
The event, presented by Verizon with support from the Devils Youth Foundation, honors active-duty service members and spouses of deployed personnel from area military bases, including Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst.
Expectant military mothers often face the unique challenge of navigating pregnancy while separated from their partners or extended families. Operation Shower was founded to turn that period of isolation into one of camaraderie and joy.
“Whether they are serving on the front lines or providing strength and support on the home front, we want to let them know that their sacrifices do not go unnoticed,” Shannon Allen, wife of Devils’ goaltender Jake Allen said. “We’re grateful for the chance to lift these mothers up and bring a little joy through this special baby shower.”
The highlight of the afternoon will be the distribution of Operation Shower’s signature “Shower-In-A-Box.” Every mom in attendance will receive a curated collection of high-quality essentials donated by the Devils and corporate partners including Chicco, Diaper Genie, Skip Hop and Quincy Mae. These boxes are designed to alleviate the financial strain that often accompanies a new arrival in a military household.
Event highlights include:
- Guest host: News 12 Anchor/Reporter Kristie Reeter will emcee the festivities.
- Themed atmosphere: A “Winter Woodland” setting featuring a catered lunch and traditional shower games.
- Inspiration: Guest speakers will share messages of support and resilience with the expectant parents.
This shower is the latest in a series of initiatives by the New Jersey Devils to support the armed forces. In November 2025, the team hosted its 15th Annual Military Appreciation Night, raising significant funds for the New Jersey Veterans Network.
“While active-duty service members face their own set of hardships abroad, their partners back home take on the invisible weight of running a household,” LeAnn Morrissey, founder & chief shower officer of Operation Shower said. “We are grateful to the Devils’ wives and girlfriends for helping us provide these remarkable women with the priceless opportunity to bond with others who truly understand their struggles.”
