Sunderland AFC fans asked to support city's poorest at foodbank donation drive-through

Supporters’ group Red and White Army has teamed up with the Black Cats’ official charity, the Foundation of Light, to create a very special foodbank collection at the Stadium of Light on Monday. December 21.

Fans are coming together to organise to a drive through foodbank in the Stadium’s car park, on behalf of the Salvation Army and Sunderland Foodbank.

From 9am, local people and businesses will be able to drop-off tinned food supplies, Christmas food - such as selection boxes and biscuits - and toiletries to the Red Car Park in a specially-designed drive-through system.

Cars will arrive via Vaux Brewery Way before pulling up to specially designated drop-off bays – where volunteers will collect donations without donors leaving the car – then exit via Millennium Way.

Andrew Hird, Chair of the Red and White Army, said: “COVID-19 has had a huge impact on all our lives. But for so many, food poverty is now a stark reality. With Christmas just around the corner, no one should be in a position where they can’t afford to provide for their family.

“We are encouraging fans to give what they can. Why not add an extra tin or selection box onto your Christmas shop and drop it off at the Stadium?

“We’d also love to see local businesses getting involved.”

Foundation managing director Jamie Wright said: “We are really pleased to be working alongside the Red and White Army to make this very special foodbank collection happen.

"The Salvation Army has played a critical part in our Tackling Loneliness Together programme and we have also been working closely with other partners to ensure children don’t miss out on meals during the school holidays.

“A donation of any size will help us provide families across the region with the food and supplies they need this Christmas.”

A full risk assessment has taken place and all volunteers will be provided with masks, gloves and hand sanitiser. Strict social distancing guidelines will apply.

To register a slot, visit https://www.redandwhitearmy.co.uk/events-1/drive-thru-foodbank. To volunteer, contact [email protected]

Donations can be made via https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/RedandWhiteArmy with all proceeds split between Sunderland Foodbank, Salvation Army and Foundation of Light.

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