Just wanted to say thanks on behalf of everyone at the club to all those who've helped support our charitable endeavours over recent weeks. It's a tough, challenging time for everyone, and it's Christmas too which is always heavy on one's wallet/purse at the best of times. But the financial backing from our fans for such as Barnsley Hospice, Weston Park Cancer Charity, Barnsley Foodbank in the last month has helped raise close to £15,000 in total, and in the latter's case in particular, has made sure that many hungry mouths are fed. Of course, it's obscene that in this rich nation we even have foodbanks. It's ridiculous that the Hospice and Weston Park rely solely on donations. But it is what it is. Democracy at work. I'm heading off into political ranting, so ignore that. I just wanted to say thanks to any of our supporters on here who've donated to the charities I've named off the back of the incredible work we've done with them in the last few weeks. You've made a real difference. And in launching the Rainbow Reds at the start of the month, our LGBTQ+ Supporters Group, as well as signing up in partnership with HerGameToo, I hope fans feel more comfortable than ever in following their beloved club. We were proud to be the first English club a couple of years ago to introduce free sanitary products to our female fans, and we are always looking to improve in all areas, in terms of inclusivity and accessibility. Loads of things aren't perfect. Lots of issues. I get it. But there are folk at this club who are fighting like trojans to affect change and with your support, backing and the wonderful acts of generosity highlighted further up it makes it all worthwhile. I'll probably get drunk and post a Christmas thread in a few days time, but in case I don't, may I wish you all the best of times over this festive period. x
Well said mate. And thank you wholeheartedly for all the work that you do too. Have a lovely Christmas
@YTBFC people like you, Beth and prior to that Rimmo are the lifeblood of this club. Despite all the issues going on in the background you knock your pan in for this club we all love. Have a great Christmas pal. No need to travel to Perth now as football North of the border is back behind closed doors.
Merry Christmas @YTBFC , @Lee Bfc and any other staff reading this forum. The great thing about the last initiative is that it's been ongoing, not just let's do it for a while and then it gets forgotten about. Enjoy the holiday period, you all deserve to!
Well done to all concerned. Are there any plans to keep the donations for the homeless going? I only ask because volunteers from courses I run have been involved at Huddersfield Town, where there are collections at every home game. It’s reasonably easy to organise. All donations are placed in one of several blue bins at the turnstiles. Our volunteers helped staff the bins, and thanked people for their donations. The bins were then wheeled to the concourse and the charities helping the homeless collected the donations. At certain points of the year, appeals were made for particular things. Soups, pasta, gloves, hats, etc. Been running a few years now and i’ve heard it’s been a success.
Absolutely gutted. Was excited to travel 250 miles there, and 250 back. Will have to watch on Sky Sports instead, in front of the fire. Fuming.
You mean the foodbank collections? If so, then yes. We plan to run it every home game, exactly how we did against West Brom. Same collection point, manned by Reds in the Community staff. And then on Monday the drivers came from the foodbank and we got them the bins, emptied them all and helped load their van. I imagine the justgiving page will stay open too, in case people want to donate cash rather than items. I accept that the donations will probably become less and less over time, if we're running it every game. But anything is better than nothing in my eyes. I also say all the above in the knowledge that things change, so don't shoot me if things do.
Whist it’s one of the best parts of the job, knowing you’re helping to make a difference, I still cannot fathom how we need foodbanks in this country. It’s shameful. If you - or anyone - want to get involved or help out with this or any other initiative, get in touch.
Couldn't agree more. It is shameful. I will be in touch after Christmas if I can help. It's possible that I may be able to get some volunteers to games to help, but that is entirely reliant on whether I am allowed to continue the project I'm running (which is out of my hands). I'll keep you posted.
