Earlier this year, Oldham Athletic Community Trust (OACT) launched their third ‘Food For Thought’ initiative, which has provided local schools with the opportunity to access up to £100 in Tesco vouchers to support those families and pupils in need.
Throughout the 2021 initiative over £1,500 has already been allocated to schools, demonstrating the need locally for ongoing support.
During this time, more than ever, it is vital that as a football club we continue to engage with our local community and as such the players, staff and directors have pledged to ensure that the initiative continues. Coming together to raise vital funds, which means that schools across Oldham can now access £200 to further continue their support for their local community.
Martin Vose, OACT Head of Community commented; "We are extremely fortunate to have such fantastic support from Oldham Athletic Football Club, especially during these ongoing difficult times.
"I’d like to thank the players, staff and directors of the football club for their support for the initiative as together we will continue to support those most in need across Oldham."
Whilst, CEO Karl Evans added; "When Martin approached me about this, it was an idea that didn’t need a great deal of thought.
"It's vitally important that Oldham Athletic supports its local community and I’m really proud of our staff and players on engaging with this initiative. It also further represents the great work that the Club and Trust are doing together."
Details will be sent directly to schools, however for further information please contact Jack.Garside@oact.org.uk
One such school to access the initial Food For Thought support is Werneth Primary School. They believe that every child is entitled to the highest quality of teaching and learning, whilst staff aim for all their school children to be provided with the best education and excellent pastoral care in a supportive and nurturing environment.
Werneth Primary School, a current OACT school partner, have used their vouchers in partnership with The Magic Breakfast to re-launch the Werneth Primary School Foodbank.
Jonathan Bell, Werneth Primary School Principal said; "We know that so many families have been affected by the pandemic. Parents and carers have found themselves unemployed or with reduced incomes through no fault of their own.
"It’s heartbreaking to see the impact of this on families across the borough, so we are incredibly grateful to Martin and OACT for supporting the Werneth Primary School Foodbank and helping us to provide a community hub at a time of need."