Charlton Athletic and their fans have come together to provide much-needed support and festive cheer to families this Christmas.
Saturday’s Bristol Rovers game was designated as ‘Christmas Spirit Day’ with Santa Claus even making a special guest appearance at The Valley to give youngsters a gift in his grotto.
Organised in conjunction with Charlton Athletic Community Trust (CACT) and Charlton Athletic Supporters’ Trust (CAST), a food bank collection was also set-up on behalf of Greenwich Foodbank.
Initially established by Addicks supporter Sam Spong before being taken on by CAST four years ago as their ‘Christmas Cheer’ initiative, more than £700 was raised and 65kg of food donated on the day.
Tickets were also provided for the game for any families eligible for free school meals across the Royal Borough of Greenwich.
On the annual campaign, CAST secretary Richard Wiseman said: “It’s an opportunity for Charlton supporters to demonstrate their legendary generosity with the food bank telling us that in the past we have donated enough for about 250 meals.
“We’ve also got 24 people coming to the Brighton game on Wednesday, costing around £350, which is funded from the Supporter’s Trust ticket bank fund – something we are going to repeat for the Boxing Day game against Peterborough as well.”
John Edge from Greenwich Foodbank added : “The donations can make all the difference to the lives of so many families.
“It’s (the event) raising the profile of the foodbank and we are getting a few more donations in but sadly more is coming out than going in.
“People are struggling to make ends meet, it’s either food or fuel for a lot of people.”
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Each year CACT works with over 25,000 people within the local community on a range of projects and schemes ranging from improving health and education to reducing crime and offering food and energy support.
Speaking on the importance of ‘Christmas Spirit Day’ to Charlton’s community arm, CACT’s Chief Executive Jason Morgan MBE said: “An annual fixture in the Charlton Athletic calendar, it aims to bring the fanbase together and provide support to those in our community who need it most during difficult times.
“Christmas Spirit Day is a natural fit given the focus of our work and partnerships and we are proud to once again celebrate it at The Valley.”
If you would like to help to continue to support CACT’s good work, check out the Charlton Athletic Community Trust website.
To support Greenwich Foodbank, click HERE.