Everton Fans' Forum step in to help
Carlisle United were delighted to be contacted by Everton Football Club last week to inform us that the Everton Fans’ Forum – a dedicated group of Evertonians – had set up a Just Giving page to help the club in the wake of Storm Desmond.
Here’s what they had to say …
As we all know. Everton supporters have a fantastic reputation when it comes to following our team and enjoying the experience and hospitality of all the stadiums we visit.
On Sunday 31 January 2016 we will be taking the full allocation in the away end at Brunton Park in the Fourth Round of the FA Cup. It is estimated that repairs to the stadium could cost up to £3million, as everything from the pitch and club’s offices through to the club shop had been flooded.
Fans and volunteers have been helping with the clean-up as much as possible as the area recovers from the tragic circumstances. Carlisle, like Everton, are a beacon of their community and I believe our upcoming game presents an opportunity for us, the fans, to play our part.
I am reaching out to Evertonians to make whatever donation you can - the price of an extra pint or cup of coffee will contribute to make a difference and to help Carlisle United with their recovery efforts.
Thank you for your support, Onwards Evertonians
Click HERE to visit the Just Giving page and to donate to the appeal.
On consultation with Carlisle United, they have confirmed that any funds raised will go to their Community Sports Trust, itself a registered charity, to help the club pick up its vital community outreach programme in the wake of the devastating floods.
The Community Sports Trust will also divide the monies raised equally with the club's official charity partners - Carlisle Key (a charity which works closely with disadvantaged and homeless young persons) and Hospice at Home (a charity which works closely with families dealing with serious illnesses and conditions).
United's media officer Andy Hall said: “This gesture is another example of how the 'Football Family' comes together in times of adversity. The response from the football community to the situation we have found ourselves in has been overwhelming and it is clear to us now that we are not alone.
“I would like to thank the Evertonians, on behalf of the community of Carlisle, for doing this for us and for two fantastic charities. It means a lot and we feel humbled by what has been done at a time when we most need help.”
And in another boost, former-United captain Steve Soley is set to donate a pair of signed Leon Osman boots to raise more cash for the fund – more details on that to follow.