Santander UK's Sunderland branch are supporting a unique employability programme designed to provide armed forces veterans with the skills and confidence to get back into work.
Branch Director Martin Kemp presented Foundation of Light Head of Commercial Richard Hopper with a cheque for £5,000 from Santander Foundation's Discovery Grant scheme which helps people across the UK make the most of their futures.
The donation will enable the Foundation to support more of the region's veterans through the Back in the Game: Veterans programme which helps them improve their physical wellbeing and mental health, reduces social isolation and helps them integrate back into civilian life.
Martin said: "We are delighted to support the region's armed forces veterans through the Foundation of Light's innovative work.
Santander Sunderland have been long-time supporters of the Foundation as their work has a direct impact on the region in which we live and work.
"This donation will go a long way to improving the futures of some of those most in need within the North East and we're very proud to be making this pledge."
The relationship between Santander and Foundation of Light has seen branch staff raise valuable funds over the years by taking part in the Foundation’s ‘Show your Colours’ day, running Christmas Hamper raffles and also Santander staff taking part in a charity fundraising Sky Dive.
Speaking about the donation, Richard Hopper, Foundation of Light's Head of Commercial added: "A lot of the veteran's that we work with suffer with post-traumatic stress and a range of mental and physical health issues.
"Santander's generosity is thankfully helping this continue and will have a huge impact on former servicemen and servicewomen, and their families."
Foundation of Light is teaming up with Stagecoach North East, which will see the bus operator support a range of community and youth development initiatives across Sunderland and the wider region.
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Foundation of Light officially opened its new Nissan Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering Skills Unit at the Beacon of Light, marked by a special ceremony with North East Mayor Kim McGuinness and Foundation Chair of Trustees, Sir Bob Murray CBE.