3rd June 2020

Here for U's scheme

This uniquely challenging time as a result of the Coronavirus outbreak has allowed the Club and the Community Trust to step up its support for the community through Here For U's.

Benefitting from a £4,705 grant from Cambridgeshire Community Foundation, the Community Trust has been able to adapt its’ programme so that their vital work can continue in this period. Cambridgeshire Community Foundation’s Coronavirus Fund is helping local charities and groups with emergency funding to deal with emerging issues affecting older and vulnerable people in our community as a result of the continuing threat of Covid-19.

The Here For U’s scheme has also seen incredible support from Cambridge United fans with significant amounts donated to the cause alongside numerous offers to volunteer.

Here For U's activities have included:

• Over 600 local elderly residents were called via the Community Careline, set up to offer practical and emotional support whenever required. Head Coach Mark Bonner, first team players Club Directors and the Trust's mental health first aid trained staff have all taken to the phones
• Over 1,500 hot meals have been prepared at the Abbey Stadium and then delivered in partnership with the Cambridge Food Poverty Alliance and Cambridge Sustainable Food, across the city of Cambridge and beyond
• 58 online sessions with over 150,000 views on the live Family Fitness Fun Community Bootcamps, which were delivered by the Community Trust's Simon Wall daily on social media
• 17 weekly Disability Sport sessions have been delivered online, with over 100 participants engaged online
• Educational support provided to people homeschooling, with the creation of Activity Packs which combined education and sport aimed at children of varying age groups

CUCT Manager Sam Gomarsall commented: "We’ve been overwhelmed by the level of support from United fans, local residents and Cambridge-based organisations who have been looking to give back to their community at this difficult time. As a Club, we can make a real difference in creating a healthier, stronger, and more equal Cambridge and we can’t say thank you enough to those that have helped. We’d like to say a specific thank you to Cambridgeshire Community Foundation, alongside all our funders, for the grant we received which has been an enormous help in allowing our staff to continue making a difference.”

You can support the Community Trust’s efforts by emailing: communitytrust@cambridge-united.co.uk to volunteer or offer any other support.