Since the COVID-19 pandemic hit Scotland back in March, Celtic FC Foundation’s Football for Good Fund, has been providing food and essentials to those most affected by the crisis. The Fund has now risen to over £1M following a wonderful Christmas Appeal phase, which saw us provide support to local families living in poverty and vulnerable pensioners on our doorstep. Through our work with a host of charity partners, we were also able to make a massive difference to the lives of children, refugees, the homeless and those living in refuge this Christmas.
But as we approach 2021, the need for our support is still at an unprecedented level, as many people continue to suffer as a result of the pandemic.
Via our regular giving initiative, Walfrid’s Wish, we are encouraging supporters to continue the legacy of Brother Walfrid, by becoming a Champion of Celtic FC Foundation, and making a monthly contribution in support of our work with those who are most vulnerable.
Walfrid’s Wish donations to date have supported a variety of fantastic projects and since April 2019, monies have been devoted to supporting those, primarily on our doorstep but also further afield, who are facing poverty. This has included our lunches for the homeless at Celtic Park and the provision of food and other essential items for local families, through our partnership with the Glasgow North East Foodbank.
Linda Stuart, Project Manager at Glasgow North East Foodbank spoke about the last nine months and how the impact of the pandemic has seen an increased demand for the Foodbank’s support, saying: “This year has been a very difficult one for Glasgow North East Foodbank. Many of the volunteers were initially unable to assist as they were in the vulnerable category and we had to make the difficult decision to close down our outreach foodbanks. This has meant that all of our food parcels have gone via our main hub at Parkhead.
“The threat of food poverty is greater now than ever. Many people are on reduced hours or have lost their jobs as a result of the effects of the pandemic. The cost of utilities seems to weigh heavily on many and, for some, the choice is heat or food.
“We decided at the start of the pandemic that instead of the standard three-day pack that we usually provide, we would give out seven days’ worth of food, as so many people were in such desperate need. We have since continued to provide this throughout.
“In April, the COVID-19 Project was set up in partnership with the Foundation. Since then, the Project has helped to feed 753 adults and 512 children (total 1,265), equating to over 26,000 meals provided. Thanks to the Project, we have also been able to include some extras which are not usually provided in the three-day food parcels such as bread, potatoes and fruit, as well as pet food, nappies, toiletries and cleaning products.
“The total amount of food provided through the Foundation’s COVID-19 Project so far is 15,899kg.
“The support has been truly invaluable and those who have contributed to the Football for Good Fund, including those who donate on a monthly basis through Walfrid’s Wish, have made a huge difference throughout 2020. Thank you so much.”
Your support will be vital as we continue provide assistance through the Football for Good Fund, via our partnership with Glasgow North East Foodbank and many other organisations.
Please follow in the footsteps of Brother Walfrid and become a Champion of Celtic FC Foundation, by making a monthly donation.
You can sign up and donate via:
DIRECT DEBIT ONLINE: HERE
DEBIT/CREDIT CARD/PAYPAL ONLINE: HERE
STANDING ORDER: Download our online form HERE
TEXT: Text CHAMPION to 70020 to give £3 per month
The text service is a subscription service. You will be charged £3 plus two text messages at your standard network rate in the first month and £3 per month thereafter. To unsubscribe text STOP to 70020 or call 0141 551 4321.
Further details on the Football for Good Fund and how you can get involved, can be found HERE
Thank you for your magnificent support.
