A Helping Hand at Christmas returns for a fourth year, with the goal of supporting more individuals and families across the region than ever before throughout the festive period.
The month-long campaign will see players and staff dedicate time to deliver memorable moments, tackle food poverty and provide warm spaces within the community.
HEARTFELT HOSPITAL VISITS AND SUSTAINABLE KEEPSAKES
First-team players from Newcastle United men's and women's squads will once again visit the city's hospital wards this month to spend time with patients, families, and NHS staff.
Players will present young patients with bespoke club teddy bears, each handcrafted from recycled first-team shirts worn last season. The bears were stitched by linen room staff at Freeman Hospital, assisted by the club's Under-ten Academy squad, who helped form many of the 150 cuddly companions as part of their ongoing community engagement.
MEMORY CAFÉ ON TOUR
The much-loved Memory Café will also make a reappearance at the Freeman Hospital after Christmas, with former Magpies players joining the sessions for nostalgic football chats, comforting patients living with life-changing illnesses such as Dementia and Alzheimer's.
UNITING GENERATIONS TO TACKLE LONELINESS
Newcastle United Academy will support older generations as the Under-nines squad visit care homes in the region, using the spirit of football to bond with residents and tackle loneliness.
FIGHTING FOOD AND FUEL POVERTY
The club will provide 250 Christmas dinners at St. James' Park for families identified through Newcastle United Foundation's community outreach programmes, in addition to staff support of local foodbanks and pantries.
To combat fuel poverty and isolation, the Foundation will also open the doors to NUCASTLE - its purpose-built community hub - providing warm, safe spaces for local people this winter.
STAFF VOLUNTEER PROGRAMME
A volunteer programme returns with greater opportunities for club and Foundation staff, building on thousands of hours contributed since the campaign was launched in 2022.
Staff engagement opportunities include:
Hands-on volunteering at Newcastle Foodbank's hubs
Foodbank and pantry drop-off points at club sites
Support for Save the Children's Christmas Jumper Day
A CORNERSTONE OF THE COMMUNITY
David Hopkinson, Newcastle United CEO, commented: "Since moving to the North East, I've been touched by the warmth and generosity of people in this city.
"Newcastle United is much more than a football club, it's a cornerstone of the community - that's why A Helping Hand at Christmas means so much to us. By pledging to deliver food, warmth and magical moments, we're committed to making a meaningful difference across the region this Christmas."
Steve Beharall, Newcastle United Foundation CEO, added: "At Newcastle United Foundation, we believe in the power of community and the importance of looking out for one another - especially at Christmas. This campaign is about more than just giving; it's about bringing people together, creating lasting memories, and ensuring that no one in our region feels alone or unsupported during the festive season. By working alongside the club, our staff, and local partners, we're proud to extend a helping hand to even more families this year, making a real difference where it matters most."
A Helping Hand at Christmas activities will be detailed on club and Foundation digital channels throughout the festive period.
