From Westminster to Wearside: Foundation of Light’s January 2026 Round-Up
January set the tone for 2026 at the Foundation of Light, with the launch of our new five-year strategy alongside continued impact across our communities.
Scores of schoolchildren at St. Mary's RC Primary School have been celebrating Red and White Day ahead of Foundation of Light Matchday on Good Friday.
The pupils were treated to a purr-fect day after a surprise visit from a very special guest.
Greeted to a hero’s welcome, SAFC mascot Samson the Cat, attended the Sunderland-based school with a spring in his step, exchanging high fives and fist bumps with pupils, before demonstrating his impressive dance moves.
‘Ha’way the Lads’ echoed around the classroom as children were unable to contain their excitement, with each individual being presented with red and white scarves.
Samson also posed for photos with children and teachers alike, before supporting the Foundation’s Small Change, Big Difference campaign – a campaign which will take centre stage when Hull City visit the Stadium of Light on Good Friday.
Wear Red and White Day – we’re encouraging everyone to celebrate the work of the Foundation by flying the red and white flag at their workplace, school or wherever they are and making a donation to the Foundation via www.justgiving.com/safc
January set the tone for 2026 at the Foundation of Light, with the launch of our new five-year strategy alongside continued impact across our communities.
Former Sunderland AFC captain Lee Cattermole was the latest person to sit down with Foundation of Light football scholars for a Changing Room Chat.
Foundation of Light is giving one lucky holiday course attendee the chance to walk out as a mascot at the Stadium of Light.