Leeds United have donated hundreds of Easter treats to a number of local care homes to try and spread some joy during this daunting period for everyone.

A variety of chocolate eggs and bunnies were distributed to several local facilities, including Knowle Manor, Home Lea House, Richmond House and Spring Gardens by coaches from the Leeds United Foundation on Friday morning for their vulnerable residents that are suffering with dementia. 

These residents have been unable to see family members for a number of weeks due to the coronavirus lockdown and therefore rely solely on the efforts of the amazing staff and volunteers working on the frontline to support them.

To help them celebrate the Easter holiday and lift their spirits the club wanted to make a special delivery of treats to remind them that we are thinking of them and that they are not alone.

The Leeds United Foundation are experienced in working closely with people in the local community who have early-onset dementia through their Corner Café programme and we can only imagine how distressing this time must be for those who are isolated and unable to see those closest to them.

Coaches at the club’s official charity work hard with the Peer Support Team at Leeds City Council to deliver the monthly sessions at Elland Road were they are able to support members and provide them and their carers with fun and engaging activities centred around staying positive and keeping active. The monthly sessions have had to be put on hold due to the COVID-19 pandemic, however coaches at the Foundation have been in regular contact with all of the participants, sending activities for them to complete and giving them somebody to talk to, even if it is just over the phone.

Leeds United have also been working closely with Cottingley Children's Centre over the past few weeks with the venue currently being used as an 'Early Help Hub' distributing food out to vulnerable families who are struggling due to the impacts of coronavirus. One of the coaches from the club's official charity was also able to take a batch of chocolate bunnies and Easter treats, on behalf of the club, to be given out in special hampers for youngsters who would most likely not get any treats for Easter otherwise.

Please remember to stay home and stay safe during the Easter weekend to help stop the spread of this virus and protect the NHS.