Manchester City will support young people across the city of Manchester this Christmas through its festive community campaign, ‘The Greatest Season of All’.
The campaign includes gift giving, community events and fundraising, and has so far funded the equivalent of 5,760 hours of free 1-2-1 and group mentoring, with a total of £200,000 raised and counting.
Since early November, City has been donating £5 to its charity, City in the Community, for every purchase a fan makes from a range of selected Christmas retail items.
The club has also continued it support of the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital through the donation of more than 500 gift bags and blankets to children staying in the hospital over the festive period. Players from the men’s first team handed out the gift bags in person when they surprised young patients and City in the Community participants with a visit last week.
Manchester City Women also made a surprise visit to Francis House, to share some festive cheer.
John Stones, Manchester City defender who visited the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital, said, “I have visited the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital a few times now and always feel so inspired after meeting so many incredible people. This year has been no different and I know all of the lads are really proud to be here.
“I especially enjoyed our visit to the Teen Zone, where we were able to spend time playing games with some huge City fans from the hospital and City in the Community. I hope those memories go some way towards creating a special Christmas for them all.
“But Christmas is about more than just one day, and it makes me proud to know that Manchester City and its fans are creating real, impactful opportunities for young people through the Club’s festive campaign this season.”
Danny Wilson, Managing Director – Manchester City Operations and City in the Community Trustee, added, “The success of ‘The Greatest Season of All’ campaign so far has been amazing. It encapsulates the community values of Manchester City through gift giving, community events and fundraising.
“As a club we are passionate about responding to the needs of people in our local community and, with rates of deprivation and crime higher in East Manchester than anywhere else across the city, providing mentoring support for young people is crucial.
“I’m also incredibly proud that the club continues its fantastic support for the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital, as well as donating items to foodbanks and hosting events at the club for those in need this time of year.”
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