Manchester United visits children’s hospitals before Christmas
The men and women of Manchester United honored their annual tradition of bringing gifts and smiles to children in local hospitals across Greater Manchester.
The players of Manchester United spread holiday cheer to Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital, Francis House Children’s Hospice, and The Christie, honoring their annual tradition. Although the men were unable to deliver the gifts in person, they filmed a video and packed gift bags to send to the patients, families, and staff members.
“These visits to the hospitals are really important to ourselves,” said men’s captain Harry Maguire. ”We’re disappointed that we can’t be there this year, but to be able to give video messages, put smiles on people’s faces, and make some people very happy.”
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Manchester United Foundation
The Manchester United Foundation launched a winter response campaign that aims to support families and young people who are facing hardship in the holiday season. They lead these Christmas hospital visits every year, delivering over 2,000 Manchester United gifts for the children and staff at the hospitals. Gifts included United-themed shirts, hats, and teddy bears.
The women’s team were able to attend the hospitals in person and hand-deliver the gifts, take pictures with the children, and sign autographs.
“We’ve been wrapping gifts and packing presents for everyone,” said women’s forward Leah Galton. “To show support to anyone is amazing, but this is something that I think is quite close to home to everybody. It’s a privilege, to be honest.”
This year, the foundation has already donated over 2,400 items of Adidas kit, and over 55,000 United-themed clothing items and accessories like hats and scarves have been delivered to children to help them through the cold winter months.
“We understand that this time of year can be very difficult for many people,” said women’s head coach Marc Skinner. “Everyone at Manchester United would like to send our love, care, and gifts.”
“For us as players, these hospital visits is something that we really look forward to,” said women’s forward Alessia Russo. “It gives a chance for us to go and give back to people and we know how much you support us, and we want to show that we support you, too.”