A Helping Hand at Christmas is a series of community pledges, including tackling food poverty, providing warm safe spaces and creating magical experiences for local people during the festive period.
As part of the month-long campaign, Newcastle United's men and women's first team players will also be making their annual visit to the city's hospital wards, spending time with patients, their families and NHS staff.
NEW FOR 2024
Building on successful campaigns in 2022 and 2023, the initiative has also been expanded to include the club's renowned Memory Café.
The Memory Café supports people living with life-changing illnesses such as Dementia and Alzheimer's. Usually held at St. James' Park, its drop-in sessions will now go on the road to local hospitals for the very first time, with former players attending for a nostalgic chat about their storied playing days.
Also new for this season, the under-9s academy team will be visiting local care homes, making up gift bags and spending time with residents as they learn about the club from years gone by, whilst also sharing their experiences of football.
VOLUNTEER PROGRAMME
A Helping Hand at Christmas will once again feature a volunteering programme for club and Foundation staff, with over 5,000 hours contributed towards good causes throughout the North East in previous years.
Staff initiatives will include support for Save the Children's Christmas Jumper Day, as well as volunteering and support for the Newcastle Foodbank, while the Magpies will also be creating collection points for food donations during December.
TACKLING FOOD AND FUEL POVERTY
With levels of food poverty in the North East amongst the highest in the UK, Newcastle United will be providing Christmas dinners at St. James' Park for families who rely on support from Newcastle United Foundation and its community outreach programmes.
To combat fuel poverty and isolation, the Foundation will once again open its doors to NUCASTLE - its purpose-built community hub. It will provide warm, safe spaces for local people each evening, with additional physical and educational activities for all ages.
'MAKING A REAL DIFFERENCE'
Newcastle United CEO Darren Eales said: "Newcastle United plays a significant role in the lives of people in our city and that is a privilege and responsibility that we take very seriously.
"Over the last two Christmases, we are proud that the 'A Helping Hand' campaign has been making a real difference in our community and we are pleased to be continuing this truly important work.
"While December can be a joyful month, it can also be one of the most challenging times of the year for people. We want those who need some support to know that we're here, and we can hopefully extend a hand to them in a way that is heartfelt and meaningful this Christmas."
Steve Beharall, Newcastle United Foundation CEO, said: "A Helping Hand at Christmas is now an integral pillar of support for our community based on two years of providing positive change over the winter period.
"As a North East charity, we see and understand the challenges so many individuals and families face every day and we know it is vital to give that extra care over Christmas.
"Working together with Newcastle United allows us to generate real, life-changing impact in our region through our united commitment to uplift our community."
A Helping Hand at Christmas activities will be detailed on club and Foundation digital channels throughout the festive period.
