The festive period is, of course, one of the most exciting times in the football calendar; a relentless fixture schedule that brings Reds together to get behind the team. This spirit of togetherness is what underpins Manchester United Foundation’s Christmas appeal this year, with the call to action being plain and simple: support those in need in your community. 

Following on from last season’s successful winter appeal, which saw players, staff and fans come together to raise money to provide food and gifts for local families, the Foundation hopes to continue this work in 2021 with the help of the United family. 

In what looks set to be another difficult winter for many, the Foundation will once again be partnering with FareShare Greater Manchester, the local branch of the UK’s biggest food charity that diverts food donations to local foodbanks and other charities. We are encouraging Manchester United staff and fans to donate to our Santa’s Red Helpers appeal, with all proceeds going to FareShare GM.

Over the past 12 months, the club’s associated charity has also forged positive relationships with M.U.S.T. (Manchester United Supporters’ Trust), The Red Army and MUWSC (Manchester United Women Supporters’ Club) who will all be engaging with this year’s campaign in what promises to be a truly united effort. The club’s collective of global supporters’ clubs have also answered the call and will be putting together their own fundraising initiatives this Christmas, supporting charities close to their heart in their own communities.

The Foundation will also be supporting its partner schools and projects by facilitating and hosting exciting Christmas activities and parties throughout the month of December, and Manchester United players have been getting in the Christmas spirit, wrapping presents and recording messages for fans who may receive a surprise this festive period.

John Shiels MBE, CEO, Manchester United Foundation, said: “Last year we saw the sheer amount of people that were reliant on our support and we don’t expect this year to be any different, which is why I am delighted to see the United family coming together once again.

“The easing of restrictions over the past few months has, of course, enabled to us to have an uninterrupted run of delivery to our schools, culminating with Christmas parties as a reward for all the children’s hard work. However, it is important to stress that despite this renewed sense of normality, there is
a lot of hardship being faced in our communities. 

“At the Foundation we work under the mantra of ‘where we serve, we stay’ and this Christmas will be as important as ever for us to be looking out for our local community.”

Donate to our Santa's Red Helpers appeal to support families in need this Christmas.

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