AFC Wimbledon are launching a new summer programme to help disadvantaged children in Mitcham during this Saturday’s League One clash against Accrington Stanley.
Entitled ‘Kitchen Social’, the initiative comes after research showed 700,000 London children struggled for food during the school holidays with the project designed to tackle social isolation, food insecurity and educational disparity.
The project will see 30 children between the ages of seven and 13 take part in a number of activities ranging from football to short tennis, kwik cricket, athletics and netball – all delivered by AFC Wimbledon Foundation coaches.
Launched in conjunction with this year’s Foundation Day, the club, in partnership with Phipps Bridge Youth Centre, are aiming to raise £10,000 to help fund the four-week summer holiday programme.
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AFC Wimbledon Foundation Director Phil Rudling said: “The ‘Kitchen Social’ scheme is linked to the Mayor’s Fund for London which targets families in the local community that are struggling to provide a full programme of physical activity during the summer.
“During the school holidays, kids that are on free meals during term-time do not always get quality, hot meals, during the break.
“We will be trying to provide good nutrition for the kids and good physical activity as well, along with creative arts and mentoring, which will run alongside it.
“Apart from the football on the pitch, this type of project shows what our club can be all about.”
Saturday’s Foundation Day will see 150 children, plus adults from football groups and disability classes joining the Dons to highlight the club’s community work.
A raffle to fundraise towards this summer’s project will also take place but if you would prefer to donate online please visit the AFC Wimbledon Foundation website and when donating, write ‘Kitchen Social’ in the comment box.