Far from the glitz of international competition, many football clubs swung into action during Covid to provide for their most vulnerable supporters (teams like Wimbledon FC have hugely active charitable arms running foodbanks and volunteering operations). One of the biggest football-related charities is Sunderland FC’s Foundation of Light, which sees wealthier fans donate money to be distributed among those in need of help with the cost of living crisis. The club also operates the architecturally-stunning Beacon community centre, which is used by 7000 members of the local community each week, providing free school catering for children, world-class sports facilities, employment assistance and health care.
