International Women's Day: Foundation looks back at years of Female Football Pathway success
Ahead of this year’s International Women’s Day we're recapping the stories of successful women to have progressed through our Female Football Pathway.
Foundation of Light Matchday when SAFC face Millwall
Sunderland AFC’s upcoming fixture against Millwall at the Stadium of Light will serve as a platform to support local families struggling with the cost-of-living crisis.
The game will be dedicated to Foundation of Light, with supporters encouraged to donate to the club’s official charity and its ‘Wear One’ campaign - an initiative providing crucial support to those in need across the North East.
The ‘Wear One’ campaign is in response to the ongoing challenges faced by many; it aims to unite the city and give a hand up to those in need, to help them live better lives.
With one in three children in Sunderland living in poverty, this campaign is more critical than ever. Through collective effort, we can provide a much-needed hand up to those striving to improve their lives and gain employment.
In the last year, the Foundation has upskilled 1,304 learners, helped 88 people gain employment and supported 631 participants seeking employment.
Foundation of Light Chief Executive, Lesley Spuhler said: “Football is more than just a game – it’s about community, and this matchday is an opportunity for the Sunderland family to come together and support those struggling during difficult times. Every donation, no matter how small, will make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.”
Sunderland AFC’s Chief Business Officer, David Bruce said: “The activity undertaken by Foundation of Light plays a hugely important role throughout the City of Sunderland and beyond. We are proud to be championing their continued dedication to our region and look forward to celebrating the incredible impact they have on so many local lives later this month at the Stadium of Light.”
Fans will learn more about the campaign in the build-up and throughout matchday, with big-screen messages, and engagement activities around the stadium.
Sunderland AFC players will show their support by wearing Foundation of Light special matchday shirts, reinforcing the club’s commitment to making a difference off the pitch.
Impact and Achievements
In the past year, the Foundation has:
- Upskilled 1,304 learners.
- Assisted 88 individuals in gaining employment.
- Supported 631 participants seeking employment.
How donations help:
- £3 provides access to healthy lifestyle fitness programs.
- £5 educates an individual on cooking healthy meals on a budget.
- £10 allows an older couple to attend activities improving physical and mental well-being
Supporting the Campaign
Fans can lend their support by texting FOLFIVE to 70085 to donate £5 or by visiting the Foundation's JustGiving page: www.justgiving.com/safc
Bernard Gilpin win chance to represent Sunderland in Primary Stars National Girls Football Tournament regional qualifiers
Foundation of Light and Sunderland AFC will be represented by students from Bernard Gilpin Primary School at the National Girls Football Tournament regional qualifiers.
Smokers offered free gym incentive to help Kick the Habit
Sunderland City Council has teamed up with Everyone Active to offer four week gym membership vouchers to smokers who set a quit date with the stop smoking service.