Sunderland Foundation of Light's milestone matchday backed by sponsors Stagecoach
‘We’re proud to support the Foundation of Light as it celebrates 25 years of making a positive difference across the city and the surrounding areas.’
Bus operator Stagecoach is getting behind Foundation of Light's 25th anniversary celebrations as the official sponsor of the matchday fan zone at the Beacon of Light.
Stagecoach will support the special fan zone ahead of Sunderland’s Premier League game against Leeds United on Sunday, October 25 as the club’s official charity celebrate 25 years of changing lives across the North East.
Former club captain and Foundation of Light ambassador Kevin Ball met with Stagecoach director Dan Leith at the Beacon to mark the sponsorship and celebrate the company's support for the milestone occasion.
The anniversary Fan Zone will form part of a week-long celebration recognising the foundation's impact, bringing supporters, families and the wider community together ahead of the Leeds match.
Since forming in 2001, Foundation of Light has used the power of football to inspire, educate and support people across Sunderland, South Tyneside and County Durham, helping thousands of children, young people and adults build brighter futures.
The charity's work focuses on girls' football, supporting young people into education, employment and training, increasing access to physical activity and providing mentoring and guidance to those who need it most.
Lesley Spuhler, Foundation of Light chief executive, said: "Reaching our 25th anniversary is an incredibly proud moment for everyone connected with Foundation of Light and it's fantastic to have Stagecoach supporting us as we mark this special milestone.
"Our matchday fan zone is all about bringing people together and that's something that sits at the heart of what we do. For 25 years, we've been creating opportunities, building confidence and helping people across our communities to achieve their potential.
"Support from businesses like Stagecoach makes a real difference to our ability to continue that work, and we're delighted to have them alongside us for what promises to be a fantastic day of celebration."
Dan Leith said: “We’re proud to support the Foundation of Light as it celebrates 25 years of making a positive difference across the city and the surrounding areas.
“Like us, the foundation is at the heart of everyday life in Sunderland, helping people connect, creating opportunities and making a lasting impact on communities.”
The matchday will also see the club celebrate the foundation's 25-year legacy and highlight the charity's life-changing work across the region.