Celtic supporters across the globe have, once again, displayed phenomenal generosity towards Celtic FC Foundation’s annual Christmas Appeal fundraising efforts. We have been encouraging you to ‘Share the Magic’ of Celtic this festive season and you have responded magnificently, as you always do.

Through the Appeal, we are aiming to assist a number of beneficiary organisations who support families, pensioners, women and children in refuge, the homeless community and refugees. Our focus on these charity beneficiaries continues today, as we turn our attention towards those providing assistance to families and children who are struggling, especially against the harrowing backdrop of the current cost of living crisis.

We heard from some of these beneficiaries on the importance of support received thanks to generosity of the Celtic fans.

Lesley Davidson, from Loaves and Fishes said: “As a small independent charity, Loaves and Fishes have long relied on the Foundation’s generosity, especially at Christmas time. Christmas sees the demand on our service trebling, both for food parcels and Christmas gifts.

“Celtic FC Foundation’s inclusion of us in their annual Christmas Appeal has helped hundreds of children that we support. For most of the children helped by Loaves and Fishes, the only gifts they receive from Santa have come directly from your contribution and support. We truly believe every child deserves even a little bit of joy at Christmas. Thanks to your support, we can make sure that happens.”

Patrick Rolink of Spirit Aid also expressed his gratitude, saying: “For many years, Celtic FC Foundation have consistently supported the work that Spirit Aid does in our communities. Without the backing of the Foundation, we would be unable to put food on the table for families burdened by poverty.

“This year we face unprecedented demand from the poorest and most vulnerable. Celtic FC Foundation have reached deep into our communities by working with grass roots charities like Spirit Aid and had a positive and genuine impact on families living in real poverty. The support makes a huge difference, meaning people can eat and heat their homes this Christmas.

“We at Spirit Aid appreciate the great kindness and generosity of the Celtic family and their willingness to step up and show compassion for the difficulties and challenges that many people face daily.”

John McCorry, of Newcastle West End Foodbank added: “In 2021, Newcastle West End Foodbank, was delighted to be a beneficiary of Celtic FC Foundation’s Christmas Appeal.

“Christmas is always a challenging time of year for families, especially when there is little or no money in many low income households for even the most basic of life’s essentials. The funds received from the Foundation were a great boost for our charity and were used to buy two tonnes of much needed food. Over that Christmas period, the Foodbank used 22 tonnes of food in 1,580 food parcels, which assisted thousands of families living in poverty.

“In recent months, we have seen more people than ever turn to our charity for assistance as the current cost of living crisis is hitting poorer households hardest.”

Michaela Collins from PEEK said: “We were overwhelmed with the generosity and kindness of the Celtic supporters who contributed to last year’s Appeal. Thanks to that support, we were able to support 1125 children and young people last Christmas with a new warm winter jacket and wellies. We were also able to distribute food hampers and fuel top-ups for families struggling through the winter months.

“Last year a lot of the families that PEEK support were just coping. We know that this winter families are currently choosing between fuel and food. A winter jacket might seem like an essential item but will be beyond the reach of many families we support, especially this year.

“By donating to Celtic Foundation’s Christmas Appeal, you will be making a real difference to children living in poverty in Glasgow.”

You can hear more from Michaela and PEEK in our latest Appeal beneficiary video below and find out more about the organisations which will benefit from your support via our Christmas Appeal webpage HERE.

Foundation appeal beneficiaries supporting children and families this Christmas