Foundation of Light raised an incredible £25,000 thanks to your support on our dedicated matchday against Hull City!
Proceeds will support those feeling the impact of the cost-of-living crisis and rising energy costs, with families across Sunderland, South Tyneside and County Durham all benefitting from the generosity of Black Cats fans.
Sunderland players also got behind the Small Change Big Difference campaign, gracing the Stadium of Light pitch in red shorts, carrying the Foundation logo.
The unique red shorts and warm-up shirt were signed by the players after the match, with the small change made by the Lads set to make a big difference to the lives we support.
Following an intense bidding war via the online auction platform Matchworn Shirts, it was Edouard Michut who claimed the bragging rights – receiving the highest bid of £404.
Jack Clarke, Lynden Gooch, Dan Neil, Luke O’Nien and Amad Diallo’s attire also proved popular, all receiving bids over £300.
In total, over £4,000 was raised through the auction, enabling the Foundation to help our communities to live happier and healthier lives.
Fans were left in awe during the interval of the Good Friday clash, witnessing first-hand the Foundation’s life-changing work. The Foundation generated a 135% increase in text donations, a 31% increase in YouTube views and a 15% rise in web traffic – as the SAFC players taking on the #FoLCremeEggChallenge went down a storm.
The ’We Are Role Models’ campaign shines a light on the Foundation’s ongoing work across Sunderland, South Tyneside and County Durham, supporting boys and young men through sport, education and mentoring.
In our latest piece we catch up with Claire Bovill and Julie McCann about their volunteering experiences.
Azeem Iftikah came to the Foundation of Light to help settle in the UK after arriving as a refugee, but he is now an integral part of the Wear Together sessions at The Venue in Stanley.