12:00, 08 July 2024
| by Nathan Thomas
Speak to any Red and you’ll get a completely different story as to where their passion for United originated. Perhaps it was where you were born, a relative, a mate – or maybe you were simply dazzled by George Best, Paul Scholes, or Ella Toone.
Whatever the reason, a unifying element among supporters is pride in the club’s longstanding commitment to developing and giving an opportunity to young talent.
At Manchester United Foundation, it is our privilege to uphold this ethos, not on the pitch, but in our communities across Manchester and beyond.
We operate in some of the most socially deprived areas of the UK, but thanks to the support of season ticket holders who have donated the cost of match tickets to the Foundation, or made a donation when checking out online, you have helped us to provide support to young people who may have otherwise gone without. We first want to thank you, for your generous support, but also explain a bit more about the impact you have made.
Our delivery focuses on two key areas: education and community. In our 80 partner primary, secondary and SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) schools, dedicated officers work to uplift and develop the skillsets and aspirations of young people.
Out in the community, football is at our core. Street Reds is our free-to-attend football project that takes place across 23 sites, primarily across Greater Manchester. Here, Foundation coaches lead sessions and allow kids to play, to enjoy themselves – the beautiful game at its most pure.
Last season, you helped to raise over half a million pounds, ensuring this work can continue. And thanks to this incredible generosity, we will be able to:
• Place a full-time officer working in five of our partner primary schools and five partner secondary schools.
• Engage children in our inclusive delivery, by working in three SEND schools.
• Fund five free-to-attend Street Reds projects for one year, ensuring our young people feel a connection and have a safe space in their local area.
The impact of this work has been strongly felt by one Stretford family in particular. Kelly, the mum of Street Reds participant Lexi, neatly surmised what the Foundation means to them.
“The Street Reds sessions are on our doorstep. It’s United, so the kids are excited to be there. We gave it a try and now it’s part of our community – like an extra family to Lexi.
“I feel that it gives us a real connection to the area that we wouldn’t have without it, it gets the kids off the streets and doing something really positive.”
As we all continue to navigate a cost-of-living crisis, the most vulnerable in our communities will sadly be affected the most, making the Foundation’s intervention more important than ever.
We understand just what this club means to you all and we hope that you will feel a sense of pride, just as you did watching Ella and Kobbie score to win the cup in May, knowing that your contribution ensures Manchester United remains rooted in its community, providing a beacon of support and hope for those young people that need it most.
From all the staff and volunteers of Manchester United Foundation, we send a heartfelt thank you for your incredible support.