Forever Reds, the official former players association for Liverpool FC, has distributed £75,000 to three vital Merseyside charities. The funds, raised through events during the previous season, will support children's healthcare, dementia services, and mental health for Hillsborough survivors.
Key Takeaways
- Forever Reds donated a total of £75,000, split into £25,000 grants for three organisations.
- The recipients are Alder Hey Children’s Charity, the Alzheimer’s Society, and the Hillsborough Survivors Supporter Alliance (HSA).
- The money was raised from fundraising events that generated over £120,000 last season.
- The donations will fund a neonatal incubator, local dementia support services, and therapy for Hillsborough survivors.
A Significant Contribution to Merseyside
Forever Reds has directed significant funds into the local community following a successful year of fundraising. The association, which brings together Liverpool FC's former players, raised more than £120,000 last season through its annual Christmas Lunch and Golf Day events.
A portion of these proceeds, totalling £75,000, has now been allocated. Three charities were selected to each receive a £25,000 donation to aid their essential work across the Liverpool City Region.
John Aldridge, Chairman of Forever Reds, commented on the importance of the contributions. He highlighted the collective effort of fans and former players in making these donations possible.
"We’re proud to be able to support Alder Hey, Alzheimer’s Society and the Hillsborough Survivors Supporter Alliance from last season’s charity events. Thank you to everyone – fans and former players – who support our Forever Reds fundraising efforts, this is what it’s for. The donations will be put to good use and make a huge difference in the local community."
Supporting Liverpool's Youngest Patients
Alder Hey Children’s Charity will use its £25,000 grant to support its new Surgical Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. The facility provides critical care for newborn babies with surgical needs.
Funding for a High-Specification Incubator
Specifically, the donation will be used to purchase a state-of-the-art incubator. This equipment is essential for caring for the hospital's smallest and most vulnerable patients, providing a controlled environment for their recovery and development.
Tracey Wilson, Head of Philanthropy at Alder Hey Children’s Charity, expressed her gratitude for the continued support from the LFC community.
"We are deeply appreciative to LFC’s Forever Reds for their ongoing support and sharing our vision of a healthier, happier and fairer future for every child. This kind gift will be used to fund a high specification incubator for our smallest and most vulnerable patients."
Vital Funding for Dementia Support
The Alzheimer’s Society received £25,000 to bolster its local dementia support services in Liverpool. The organisation provides critical guidance and assistance to individuals and families affected by the condition.
Dementia in Liverpool
According to the Alzheimer's Society, nearly one million people are living with dementia in the UK. In Liverpool alone, there are an estimated 32,000 people with the condition, making local support services essential.
Direct Impact on Local Services
The funds will ensure the continuation of services such as Dementia Advisers, who offer expert guidance and emotional support to those navigating the challenges of dementia.
Sam Scott, Senior Fundraising Manager at Alzheimer’s Society, explained the significance of the donation.
"It’s fantastic that Forever Reds have chosen to support Alzheimer’s Society with a generous £25,000 donation which will go directly to local dementia support services in Liverpool. The funds will ensure that Alzheimer’s Society can continue to provide desperately needed support to thousands of people across Liverpool."
Aid for Hillsborough Survivors
The third recipient, the Hillsborough Survivors Supporter Alliance (HSA), will use its £25,000 to provide access to therapy for those affected by the 1989 disaster. The HSA offers a crucial support network for survivors and their families.
Diane Lynn from the organisation confirmed the immediate impact the funding has already had on people's lives.
"Thank you to everyone at Forever Reds for this generous donation. Since the award over 30 people have been able to access therapy and change their lives for the better."
The Role of Forever Reds
Forever Reds was established by Liverpool FC to ensure former players remain connected to the club and the community. Its mission involves providing support to ex-players and leveraging their collective status to raise money for important local causes, reinforcing their lifelong bond with the city.
Ongoing Charitable Efforts
This £75,000 distribution is part of a broader charitable commitment from the organisation. Earlier this season, Forever Reds partnered with the LFC Foundation to donate £50,000 to the Liverpool Spirit Appeal. This city-wide fund was created to support those affected by the incident during the Champions Parade.
The association is now looking ahead to its next major fundraising event. The Forever Reds Christmas event will feature club legends including Sir Kenny Dalglish, Ian Rush, Alan Hansen, Natasha Dowie, and John Aldridge. Tickets are available for the public to support their future charitable work.