Fan donations requested for winter coat appeal

In a repeat of a resoundingly successful initiative debuted last season - when more than 2,000 coats were donated by supporters - fans are again requested to bring coats on matchday, with all items received to be distributed within the local community ahead of the winter period.

As well as the appeal taking place for the men’s game against Chelsea at Old Trafford, this year there will also be a donation area at Leigh Sports Village, where our women’s team are in action, with Arsenal the visitors.

All coats received will primarily be donated to those who access Foundation projects.

The Foundation positively impacted the lives of almost 39,000 young people in the 2023/24 season, operating in the areas of highest social deprivation across Greater Manchester – where almost 250,000 children* are living in poverty.

John Shiels, CEO of Manchester United Foundation, said: “Manchester United fans did a wonderful job of helping to support our young people through this initiative last year, donating over 2,000 coats, which were gratefully received by participants at our community projects.

“Sadly, as the adverse effects of rising fuel costs, child poverty and other societal issues show no signs of abating, the need to support young people and families remains incredibly pertinent this year.

“As the club’s associated charity, the Foundation is duty bound to support the local community, and we take great pride in doing that. But any community effort is only enhanced by the contribution of this magnificent fanbase, so we call on you to donate any coats you can this winter - it could make an incredible difference at a time of great need.”

OLD TRAFFORD DONATIONS

Coats can be donated from three hours before kick-off at signposted donation bins next to the five bag drop locations on site at Old Trafford.

The location of each bag drop location can be found by clicking here. Each bag drop location will be open for donations from 13:30 GMT, three hours before kick-off, and will reopen for one hour at full-time, from approximately 18:15 until 19:15 GMT.

LEIGH SPORTS VILLAGE DONATIONS

Fans can donate coats at the Leigh Youth Hub, which is opposite Leigh Sports Village.

The hub will be open for donations from 10:30 GMT, from two hours before kick-off. Donations will also be accepted for 30 minutes after full-time in the Legends Bar, which can be accessed via the West Stand of the stadium, from approximately 14:15 until 14:45 GMT.

The winter coat appeal is running for one day only, with fans able to donate a coat both before and after the game. Supporters are asked to ensure all coats donated are clean, with pockets emptied and all personal belongings removed before donating.

The coat appeal will complement a wider winter-giving campaign by the Foundation, including an investment of £100,000 in resources to help young people stay warm.

This mirrors last year’s campaign, where more than 22,000 warm clothing items were distributed, in addition to coats donated by supporters.

Visit mufoundation.org to learn more about the Foundation’s work across Greater Manchester.