Newcastle United Foundation Nets £250,000 To Boost Access To Sport

Newcastle United Foundation is celebrating after receiving £250,000 to help with its mission to build stronger communities by boosting access to sport and volunteering.

The funding raised by players of People’s Postcode Lottery was announced during Newcastle United’s home game against Huddersfield on Saturday 23 February, 2019.

Judie McCourt, People’s Postcode Lottery ambassador, presented the landmark cheque from Postcode Sports Trust to Foundation Patron Shola Ameobi on the St. James’ Park pitch at half time.

With this support, the Foundation will be able to increase the coaching provision provided to LGBTQ team Newcastle Panthers as well as developing a new ‘Fit Club’ for the over 50’s.

The funding will also allow the Foundation to expand its volunteering programme, building on an ever-growing pool of passionate volunteers and developing initiatives to encourage social action in our communities.

Sarah Medcalf, Development Manager at Newcastle United Foundation, said: “We are incredibly grateful to players of People’s Postcode Lottery for this generous support.

“This funding will allow Newcastle United Foundation to further its mission of building a better future for disadvantaged communities across our region. By creating even more opportunities for positive experiences built on involvement and inclusion, be that through sport or volunteering, we can have a significant impact on the health and wellbeing of thousands of our participants.”

The Foundation’s ‘United Futures’ programme, which will be supported with the funding, encourages more people to get active, developing their confidence to achieve a healthier life and reach their potential. Through accessible activities, people from all backgrounds and their families will meet and feel part of their community improving their mental and physical well-being.

People’s Postcode Lottery ambassador Judie McCourt said: “It’s been a real pleasure to come to St James’ Park to present Shola with this amazing £250,000 cheque, which is going to make a huge difference to Newcastle United Foundation over the coming year. The charity’s work stretches far beyond football, helping to bring people in the community closer together to share a positive experience through sport.”