Foundation launches Beacon wristbands to light up lives

Foundation of Light are launching special light-up wristbands next week as part of the final fundraising drive to build the Beacon of Light. The wristbands, which become bright red when illuminated will go on sale at the Sunderland AFC FanFest on Monday 23rd October priced at £3 each. Foundation of Light, the registered charity of Sunderland AFC, is launching the bands to help raise the final £2m required to complete the pioneering community hub which will open in September, 2018. The Beacon of Light will be accessible to people of all ages from the region and will house the Foundation’s award-winning work in four vital areas: Education; Health and Wellbeing; Sport and Play; and the World of Work. The Foundation of Light have raised £16m for the project so far from a variety of sources including funds and trusts, and major donations from businesses and individuals. The final fundraising drive encompasses both corporate and community fundraising, including the opportunity to purchase named steps and tiles within the build. Speaking about the wristband launch, Foundation CEO Lesley Spuhler OBE said: "Since the Beacon of Light will be a community hub that everyone will be able to benefit from, we wanted to create a fundraising opportunity that everyone could get involved in. "Sunderland AFC’s FanFest is the perfect event to launch at and we’d like to express our thanks to the club for inviting us to be part of it."

I think the wristbands are a great idea. It’s a very simple way of showing you care about the future of the local community it will make a big difference to future generations.

Sunderland AFC captain, John O'Shea

Wristbands will be on sale on site at FanFest available from sellers throughout the Stadium of Light activity areas and in the SAFC Store at the Stadium. They will be available in Sunderland AFC stores at the Stadium of Light, Debenhams Sunderland and the Bridges, Washington, immediately after the FanFest.

FanFest takes place at the Stadium of Light on Monday 23^rd October between 10am and 3pm. A completely free event for supporters of all ages, Sunderland AFC’s FanFest gives fans a rare opportunity to watch the first team train, as well as take part in a range of free activities in and around the Stadium. For further information visit www.safc.com/fanfest

For further information about the other fundraising opportunities contact Clare on 0191 551 5385.