Football stars visit Manchester Children’s Hospital to spread Christmas cheer

Manchester City, its fans, and staff, have come together this Christmas to support young people across the city of Manchester through the Club’s festive community campaign, ‘The Greatest Season of All’.

‘The Greatest Season of All’ includes gift giving, community events and fundraising, and has so far funded the equivalent of 5,760 hours of free 1-2-1 and group mentoring, with a total of £200,000 raised and counting.

Funds raised will help create healthier futures for young people in Manchester through targeted mentoring and community football outreach from City in the Community coaches, focusing on building confidence, life skills, and career aspirations.

Gifts That Give Back

As part of the campaign, Manchester City has pledged to donate £5 to its charity, City in the Community, for every purchase made from a selected range of Christmas retail items.

Fans and staff have joined the cause, tripling additional donations to maximize the impact.

The result?

A substantial £200,000 raised so far, translating into an impressive 5,760 hours of free mentoring for young people.

Bringing Smiles to Hospitals

The players from both the men’s and women’s first teams didn’t just stop at fundraising.

They extended the festive spirit by visiting the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital and Francis House, distributing over 500 gift bags to patients.

The personal touch and generosity of the players added a special touch to the season for those in need.

Building Brighter Futures

The funds raised through ‘The Greatest Season of All’ will play a crucial role in creating healthier futures for young people in Manchester.

City in the Community coaches will utilise the funds for targeted mentoring and community football outreach programs.

These initiatives focus on building confidence, life skills, and career aspirations, addressing vital aspects like mental well-being and youth violence prevention.

Player Testimonials and Community Impact

John Stones, who visited the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital alongside the full men’s squad, said: “I have visited the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital a few times now and always feel so inspired after meeting so many incredible people. This year has been no different and I know all of the lads
are proud to be here.

“I especially enjoyed our visit to the Teen Zone, where we were able to spend time playing games with some huge City fans from the hospital and City in the Community. I hope those memories go some way towards creating a special Christmas for them all.

“But Christmas is about more than just one day, and it makes me proud to know that Manchester City and its fans are creating real, impactful opportunities for young people through the Club’s festive campaign this season.”

Continued Support Beyond Gifts

The commitment of Manchester City extends beyond gifts.

The club continues to support the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital, making surprise visits and contributing over 500 gift bags and blankets to children staying in the hospital during the festive period.

Spreading Joy Beyond the Pitch

Beyond the hospitals, City in the Community has been actively supporting local communities with a range of free events at the Etihad Campus.

Additionally, Manchester City’s EDS squad has been actively involved in supporting local organisations and food banks.

Making a Lasting Impact

Angela Rowe, Deputy Director of Charity for Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital, expressed gratitude for City’s annual visits, highlighting the positive impact on patients during the Christmas season.

How You Can Contribute

‘The Greatest Season of All’ Christmas campaign continues until December 31st. Fans are encouraged to contribute and make a difference by clicking here

Manchester City’s festive campaign is more than just a celebration—it’s a commitment to making a lasting impact in the lives of young people in Manchester.

With a blend of heartfelt generosity and community support, ‘The Greatest Season of All’ is truly living up to its name.

City In The Community

City in the Community is Manchester City’s charity (registered charity no. 1139229).

Founded in 1986, it supports young people across Greater Manchester by empowering healthier lives through football.

The charity’s programmes live under three outcome-themed pillars: healthy people, healthy futures, and healthy communities.

• Growing healthy people by putting physical activity and mental well-being at the centre of our programmes.
• Building healthy futures through education and employability pathways.
• Connecting people by creating healthy communities in safe, inclusive environments. 2022/23 saw City in the Community deliver 17 programmes reaching over 18,000 people aged between 2 and 79, totalling over 21,500 community sessions and averaging 22 hours per participant.