Sunderland AFC’s ‘gift of football’ initiative, has seen over 1,500 tickets donated by supporters, players, directors and club staff, to members of the community who otherwise may not be able to attend the Boxing Day game.
Foundation of Light, Sunderland AFC’s official charity, has helped to distribute tickets to families, groups and young people, spreading festive cheer across the region.
One of the groups who have benefitted from the donation is Together for Children, the organization that delivers Children’s Services on behalf of Sunderland City Council.
Representatives from the organisation, along with some of the young people who use their services were invited to the Stadium of Light to meet the Mayor of Sunderland, Cllr Linda Scanlon and Sunderland AFC’s managing director Tony Davison and players Glen Loovens, Bryan Oviedo and Reece James. They were presented with 50 tickets.
Speaking about the initiative, Tony Davison said: “It is wonderful to see how the ‘gift of football’ idea has been embraced by everyone and I extend my sincere thanks to everyone who has donated to it.
“Christmas can be a difficult time of year for some people and we hope that we have been able to spread a little bit of joy to those that need it most”.