Hays Travel’s shirt support for Sunderland AFC charity at QPR game

The official travel partner of Sunderland AFC, Hays Travel, is supporting the charity’s Heart On Your Sleeve initiative by sponsoring sleeves for the group.

SAFC will dedicate the match against Queen’s Park Rangers on Saturday, March 16, in honor of the initiative. Sunderland will have the Foundation of Light insignia on the sleeve of their matchday shirts.

The special edition shirts will be signed and auctioned afterwards, raising vital funds for the campaign which brings supporters together to help and inspire one another to live happier, healthier lives.

North East football fans are noted for their passion and the Foundation wants to channel that energy to make a difference to lives across Wearside.

Recent studies show that health inequalities in the UK are worsening, with the gap between the North East and the south of England widening.

Across our region people are living shorter lives and in poorer health.

Every year, Foundation of Light works with up to 20,000 youth and families to address these concerns. It promotes parental and grandparental physical and mental activity and serves as an inspiration for the next generation to follow suit.

The Foundation provides families with access to sports and exercise sessions, mental health resources, and the Beacon of Light community hub’s facilities through a variety of initiatives, programs, and partnerships with SAFC.

“Creating opportunities for young people has been important to us since Hays Travel was established in 1980,” stated Irene Hays, chair of Hays Travel.

“We think all young people should have access to the resources and assistance they require in order to reach their full potential and lead fulfilling lives, regardless of their background.

“It is an honor to support a campaign that upholds every young person’s right to a brighter tomorrow and uses education and recreation to empower North East families, especially in times of crisis.”

Lesley Spuhler, CEO of the Foundation of Light, stated: “We are overjoyed that Hays Travel has supported our Heart On Your Sleeve campaign.”

“We know Hays have a strong connection to the North East and that they share our beliefs since we have been friends with them for a long time.

It’s a fantastic chance for us to collaborate and generate funds to support fans and their families in Sunderland and beyond.

Go to the Foundation of Light website to learn more or to make a donation.