Foundations unite in landmark campaign to help end child poverty

The Foundation of Light is proud to stand alongside sporting charities and community organisations across the region as we launch Together Through Sport, a major campaign designed to make sure every child in the North East gets the chance to play, grow and thrive.

This year-long fundraising effort brings together an incredible line-up of partners including the North East Housing Partnership, Newcastle United Foundation, Durham Cricket Foundation, Eagles Community Foundation, Newcastle Rugby Foundation and the North East Mayor, Kim McGuinness. For the first time, all of the region’s sporting foundations are joining forces to make sure children, no matter their background, can experience the life-changing benefits that sport brings.

Funds raised throughout the campaign will create free places on holiday programmes and support free sports sessions in schools, helping hundreds of young people access safe, positive, confidence-building activities.

The campaign officially kicked off at the Beacon of Light where young people enjoyed hands-on activities delivered by each foundation, met players and regional sporting representatives, and North East leaders backed the shared ambition to create the UK’s first Region of Sport.

Lesley Spuhler, Foundation of Light Chief Executive, said: “Sport changes lives, we see it every single day at the Foundation of Light. By coming together with our fellow sporting foundations, we can make sure even more young people across the North East feel supported, inspired, and included. Together Through Sport is about breaking down barriers and making sure no young person is left watching from the sidelines.”

North East Mayor Kim McGuinness added: “We’re famous for our love of sport here, and every child should feel part of that. Together Through Sport gives young people the chance to discover new passions, grow in confidence and unlock talents they might never have realised.”

Supporters can help make a difference by texting TOGETHERFIVE to 70085 to donate £5 or by visiting the campaign page on JustGiving https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/sport

The campaign will also be showcased during the Wear-Tyne Derby at the Stadium of Light on Sunday 14 December.