SAFC boss praises work of Foundation in lockdown
Sunderland AFC boss Phil Parkinson has thanked charity staff playing their part supporting communities.
As part of International Happiness at Work Week, Parkinson recorded a special talk-in for Foundation of Light staff.
The club’s official charity has been working tirelessly over the last six months to support thousands of vulnerable people and families who found themselves at greater risk of poor mental health, physical inactivity or social isolation as a result of the pandemic.
They have been delivering food parcels to the most vulnerable, supporting local foodbanks, delivering online courses for people on furlough, online activities for older generations and more for communities in Sunderland, South Tyneside and Durham during lockdown.
Speaking directly to the Foundation staff over Zoom, Parkinson said: “Keep going. It’s been really tough.
"I know we’ve had a setback in terms of the Government announcement, but I feel like that if things get done properly over the next few weeks, things will start to look better.
“For me, cycling was a big thing during the lockdown. I found that a great release. I wanted to use the lockdown to get myself fit and I got up most mornings and went out cycling or running.
“Keep yourself engaged in interesting things like hobbies, keep yourself active and have a focus each day. We’ll get through this together and come through this stronger.”
Talking about the importance of the club and the Foundation in the community the former Reading midfielder said: “It’s absolutely crucial and Sunderland is a community club.
“It really is at the heart of the city; the players understand that and I understand the importance of the club in the community. We’re representing a huge club and a big city and it’s a responsibility that we’re definitely aware of and I constantly remind the players of that.”
Park in son was full of praise for the Foundation’s home, the Beacon of Light – a stateof-the-art community hub based on Stadium Park, “It’s an incredible facility.
"I’d been at the club a couple of months and got invited down and I was blown away by it. It’s just amazing. What a great facility it is for the people of Sunderland to use.”
Moreinformation, ortodonate, visit www.foundationoflight.co.uk