Manchester United’s second stadium sleep out in support of vulnerable young people has raised more than £40,000 for charity.
Over 120 fans gathered at Old Trafford last Friday, as they swapped their beds for a sleeping bag in a bid to raise funds and awareness for young people experiencing poverty and hardship during the winter months.
Supporters from across the UK bedded down whilst overlooking the iconic Old Trafford pitch as part of a special event, from which all funds raised will be split between Manchester United Foundation and youth homelessness charity, Centrepoint.
Fans were able to share their real-life experiences as well as take part in activities such as listening to helpline calls, writing to participants that had experienced homelessness from Foundation partner school, Manchester Enterprise Academy.
Former United player David May joined supporters on the night. He said: “I’m from North Manchester, born and raised in Middleton, so Manchester is very close to my heart. It’s heart-breaking that people are sleeping outside in the pouring rain. It’s not right. I’ve been listening to a lovely lad, Joe, who was saying the difficulties of what it’s like day-in day-out, being homeless, having to live on the streets – this just brings it home, it really does.
“It’s a fantastic cause and a great turnout on a horrible night, but we’ll have a few laughs along the way as well and keep it light-hearted, but the main thing is plenty of money being raised for the Foundation and Centrepoint. I’m absolutely buzzing to be part of it.”
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, John Shiels MBE, Chief Executive of Manchester United Foundation, expressed his gratitude to those sleeping out: “Our Old Trafford sleep out was such a humbling experience for the 100-plus supporters who selflessly bedded down for the night, in aid of Manchester United Foundation and Centrepoint.
“Fortunately, spending the night sleeping rough was something we had to contend with for just one night – and we had the privilege of doing so with the backdrop of Old Trafford as a motivating factor. The experience allows everyone to better appreciate the challenges that those sleeping rough must sadly face every day.
“The sleep out was a life-affirming experience with a great camaraderie of everyone coming together for such a worthy cause. We are thankful to everyone who took part or donated, your contribution will make an immense difference to young people in hardship this winter.”
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