Skates of Hope looks to honor the victims of .American Airlines Flight 5342

Christine Cheesman wears many hats – she’s a homeschool mom, an art teacher, and a new figure skater. But now, she’s taken on a new role as the founder of Skates of Hope. Living in North Carolina, Cheesman was at an ice skating rink when she heard about the tragic incident involving American Airlines Flight 5342 and a U.S. Army helicopter on Jan. 29 in Washington, D.C. The collision resulted in the loss of all 67 individuals on board, including 28 members of the figure skating community – 11 young athletes, four coaches, and 13 family members.

As a mother, Cheesman was deeply affected by the news of the plane crash. “Even now, thinking about it, it’s really difficult to try to understand what the parents are feeling and the families that have lost everything,” she expressed. Her 12-year-old daughter, who fell in love with figure skating after a school field trip, also felt the impact of the tragedy. The sport of figure skating holds a special place in their hearts, and they both find solace and purpose on the ice.

Skates of Hope was born out of a desire to honor the victims of flight 5342. Cheesman uses Instagram to collect donations of skates, which are then gifted to skaters in need. The response has been overwhelming, with grateful recipients expressing their thanks for the generosity. Coaches have also reached out to Cheesman, eager to support athletes facing challenges by providing them with a free pair of skates.

Cheesman’s ultimate goal is to turn Skates of Hope into a nonprofit organization. Monetary donations received will be directed towards the families who lost loved ones in the D.C. plane crash. Those interested in donating skates or receiving a pair can reach out to Cheesman via Instagram.

The D.C. plane crash marked the deadliest incident in the U.S. since Nov. 12, 2001, when a jet crashed into a New York City neighborhood, claiming the lives of 260 individuals on board and five on the ground. As Cheesman continues her mission with Skates of Hope, she hopes to bring comfort and support to those affected by the tragic event.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.