Premier League clubs show support during festive period

As winter draws in, Premier League clubs are working hard in their communities, offering support to people hit hard by the cost-of-living crisis at Christmas.

Newcastle United

Newcastle and its charitable arm, the Newcastle United Foundation, have launched the "Helping Hand At Christmas" campaign, which includes a donation of £150,000 to Newcastle West End Foodbank, providing a warm, safe space for the community to combat fuel poverty, as well as a volunteer scheme involving club staff. 

See: Newcastle launch Community Christmas campaign

Leeds United

Leeds held an open training session this week to give supporters the opportunity to donate to Mission Christmas, which helps Santa Claus reach children who are living in poverty. Players and staff have already made a significant contribution to the charity.

See: Leeds show support for Mission Christmas

West Ham United

First-team duo Lukasz Fabianski and Tomas Soucek joined Academy defender Levi Laing in helping staff at Irons Supporting Foodbanks as they sorted through and delivered clothing to those in need.

Irons Supporting Foodbanks, run by a group of West Ham fans, has a longstanding relationship with the club, and joint-chairman David Sullivan has made several personal donations.

See: West Ham assist Irons Supporting Foodbanks

West Ham United Foundation are also running free activity programmes across east London and Essex for children eligible for free school meals. 

Liverpool

Club legend Sir Kenny Dalglish helped LFC Foundation staff at Anfield in packing hampers for babies and children. Funded by proceeds from the 7Appeal, the hampers will be delivered to families in need across the region and is part of the Reds' community Christmas campaign "LFC Operation Christmas Magic".

See: Sir Kenny’s 7Appeal delivers much-needed essentials

And as energy and food prices rise, Liverpool Region Mosque Network has partnered with the LFC Foundation on LFC Operation Christmas Magic for the second year, supporting people from all walks of life through food packages and emergency supplies. 

See: LFC Foundation collaborate with Liverpool Region Mosque Network

Aston Villa

Villa fans who raised money for the Aston & Nechells Foodbank by buying passes to watch two mid-season friendlies through VillaTV. The project provides vital food and hygiene products to support people in crisis.

See: VillaTV subscribers raise money for local Foodbank

Brentford

Brentford Community Sports Trust opened its Community Stadium Hub to offer weekly warm space provision for local residents. The Trust has joined other voluntary and community sector partners this winter to give residents a place to go where they can access a range of activities and refreshments over the winter.

See: Community Stadium Hub opens doors

Also in this series

Part 1: PL clubs offer helping hand in tough times
Part 3: Clubs at Christmas: Hospital visits bring festive cheer