Celtic FC Foundation is once again shining a spotlight on Challenge Poverty Week, which runs from October 7-13, giving a platform for organisations to showcase the work being done to combat poverty across the country.

Founded in 1888, Celtic Football Club was established to raise funds to feed the poor in Glasgow's East End. And today, 136 years on, tackling poverty remains central to the aims of the club's charitable arm, Celtic FC Foundation.

In support of Challenge Poverty Week 2024, here are a few ways that Celtic FC Foundation is striving to help address poverty:

PARADISE PIT STOP

Through Paradise Pit Stop, our doors at Celtic Park open every Monday and Thursday night between 5pm-7pm and every Wednesday and Friday afternoon, from 12noon-2pm for anyone who may wish to join us, with a free warm meal and a selection of hot and soft drinks available to enjoy in the comfort of our lounge.

To date, we have supported over 19,000 individuals and provided over 36,500 hot meals.

CASHBACK: GATEWAY TO OPPORTUNITY

Funded by the Scottish Government, this project, based at Celtic Park, offers support to 16–24-year-olds who have offended or are at risk of re-offending, helping them to build new skills and move into positive destinations.

ISLAMIC RELIEF UK PARTNERSHIP

For the past four years, Celtic FC Foundation and Islamic Relief UK have collaborated to pack and distribute emergency food packs to vulnerable individuals and families across Scotland.

ANNUAL CHRISTMAS APPEAL

Running annually from early November to late December, the Foundation’s Christmas Appeal hosts major fundraising events to support the poorest and most vulnerable families in various communities across the UK and Ireland.

COMMUNITY GAMES

Community Games provides support to the most vulnerable children, giving access to three meals a day, workshops, fun games and physical activity throughout the school holidays.

Recently, the project was expanded thanks to funding from the Scottish Government and the Scottish FA’s Extra Time budget.

GATEWAY TO HEALTH AND OPPORTUNITY

This 10-week health and wellbeing project engages with those furthest from the labour market, improving their quality of life through training, volunteering, and helping them on to continue on their personal journey.

Speaking on Challenge Poverty Week, Celtic FC Foundation Chief Executive, Tony Hamilton said: "As a club with a proud charitable heritage, we have always had a real sense of responsibility to do all we can to help those in poverty, particularly people on our doorstep.

“And we’re incredibly grateful for the financial backing we receive, which allows us to help those people within our communities. However, there is still so much more work to be done, especially as those living in poverty face higher living costs.

"We would encourage those living in poverty to explore what options might be right for them through Celtic FC Foundation’s social channels and website."

For more information about our various projects and initiatives please visit our website at celticfcfoundation.com or contact Celtic FC Foundation at cfcfoundation@celticfc.co.uk

Celtic FC Foundation supporting Challenge Poverty Week 2024