Saturday's Premier League fixture against Wolverhampton Wanderers marks Leeds United’s dedicated Holbeck Together matchday. The local charity is dedicated to supporting people across the Holbeck community in the shadow of Elland Road.
Holbeck is one of the most deprived areas in the city and in the UK, where harsh conditions contribute to a life expectancy 12 years lower than the rest of Leeds. Facing those challenges, Holbeck Together provides vital support and opportunities for those who are struggling.
From organising trips, to creating memorable experiences for older, isolated residents and local families, the charity opens doors that financial barriers too often keep closed. At Christmas, 750 toys were provided to local children, with a parent exclaiming “I do not have to tell the children this year that Santa doesn’t exist!” More recently, over 1,000 Easter eggs were distributed across the community.
On Saturday supporters will notice Holbeck Together’s presence around Elland Road. The charity is holding bucket collections outside of turnstiles and at the club shop, a table will be set-up in the East Stand concourse sharing their services with fans, and a special feature will appear on the big screen. The charity’s Chief Officer will also be delivering talks in lounges pre-match.
The first team will also be kindly donating a match worn shirt for auction at full-time, raising valuable funds to help Holbeck Together continue their work. Every donation helps to sustain the many vital services delivered by the charity. To access the auction, please click here.
Holbeck Together’s Chief Officer, Elissa Newman,said: “Leeds United as a football club don’t just look to the pitch, they look outward to the local and wider communities of Leeds. It is a privilege to work in partnership with the club to ensure that local people have opportunities to live, thrive, work and play.
“The club is always here for us, providing 100 meals for the community at the loneliest time of the year and supporting us to achieve our aspirations as a charity and develop our critical partnerships with companies throughout the city. We are delighted that we have been given the opportunity to showcase our work at today’s match. Thank you Elland Road.”
Leeds United and Holbeck Together have a longstanding relationship, dating back many years. Club Ambassadors Stuart Dallas and Eddie Gray have made appearances with the charity, attending the annual Holbeck Christmas lights switch-on and one of the charity’s wellbeing breakfast events respectively to offer their support and reinforce the club’s relationship.
You can show your support by donating to Holbeck Together by texting HOLBECK followed by your donation amount to 70480. To learn more about Holbeck Together and the essential work they are carrying out in the local community, visit holbecktogether.org.
