January marks a year of partnership between The New Saints and one of the most important initiatives in their community.
Last year, the club offered free pitchside advertising space for local charities – and the Oswestry and Borders Foodbank were one of the organisations that benefited. Since then, their link-up has gone from strength to strength – with Park Hall serving as a drop-off point for donations in the run-up to Christmas.
“The players and staff really got behind this,” says commercial manager Simon O’Reilly, who is leading on the project. “The manager Craig Harrison kicked off the donations with a very kind shop and was followed by all players and staff bringing in items – every single one donating.”
In the months to come, TNS are looking to continue to support the foodbank, especially at key times of the year, increasing awareness that donations can be left at the ground, and increasing volunteer time from players and staff.
“We are thrilled that TNS have become another donation/collection point in town,” said a spokesperson for Oswestry and Borders Foodbank. “This has had such a positive impact on raising awareness of the work of the Foodbank and it is great to see the younger generations getting involved too.
“Our aim is to no longer be needed in the town, and by collaborating with other charities and community groups such as TNS – who are working hard to increase community and individual resilience – Oswestry and Borders Foodbank can look forward to the day when they can close their doors.”
