Newcastle United extends 'A Helping Hand' to more than 1000 local families throughout December | OneFootball

The month-long campaign saw players and staff unite to deliver memorable moments, tackle food poverty and provide warm spaces within the community.

HEARTFELT HOSPITAL VISITS

Newcastle United’s men’s and women’s squads visited hospital wards across the city, spending time with more than 400 patients, their families and NHS staff. During visits, 175 children were gifted club teddy bears crafted from recycled first-team shirts. Each shirt was sewn by Freeman Hospital staff, assisted by the club’s Under-12 Academy squad.

TACKLING FOOD AND FUEL POVERTY

St. James’ Park opened its doors to host Christmas dinners for more than 200 families identified through Newcastle United Foundation outreach programmes. Staff contributed over 80 volunteer hours to deliver a memorable experience.

Addressing fuel poverty and social isolation, NUCASTLE opened as a warm, safe community hub throughout winter. Its Family Fun Club welcomed 49 participants who enjoyed quiz nights, gaming, festive films, and sports activities - all supported by Foundation staff.

STAFF TAKE HANDS-ON APPROACH TO VOLUNTEERING

Club and Foundation staff embraced an expanded volunteering programme, contributing more than 65 hours of hands‑on support at Newcastle Foodbank hubs in the week prior to Christmas. During the week, the foodbank issued emergency food parcels to 151 families.

Foodbanks across the city also benefited from generous donations by players and staff, with collection points at all club sites helping to support many of the 1,000 local people who received assistance from Newcastle Foodbank this December.

Staff further supported the community by taking part in Christmas Jumper Day on 11 December, raising funds for Save the Children.

MEMORY CAFÉ MILESTONE

The Memory Café Christmas party welcomed a record attendance. The gathering is a cherished tradition which united 160 fans with life‑changing conditions such as Dementia and Alzheimer’s, along with carers and family members, for an afternoon of festive cheer.

Magpies legends including Bob Moncur, John Anderson, David Craig, Pop Robson, Malcolm Macdonald and Charlie Woods joined supporters for a day of celebration.

UNITING GENERATIONS TO TACKLE LONELINESS

Newcastle United Academy supported older generations as the Under-9s squad visited care homes in the region, using the spirit of football to tackle loneliness and bond with residents.

CELEBRATING ACHIEVEMENTS

Dan Burn and Shania Hayles made starring appearances at the Newcastle United Disabled Supporters Association annual end-of-year awards celebration. The pair delighted fans by stepping up to collect Player of the Year awards before spending time handing out prizes, signing autographs and posing for photos with more than 100 attendees.

A CORNERSTONE OF THE COMMUNITY

Speaking as the campaign launched on Monday 1st December, Newcastle United’s CEO David Hopkinson said: "Since moving to the North East, I've been touched by the warmth and generosity of people in this city.

"Newcastle United is much more than a football club, it's a cornerstone of the community - that's why A Helping Hand at Christmas means so much to us. By pledging to deliver food, warmth and magical moments, we have committed to making a meaningful difference across the region this Christmas."