The LFC Foundation has announced that it has funded a total of 20 organisations in Anfield with grants amounting to £140,000 to date through the Red Neighbours Community Fund. Established by the LFC Foundation with support from Liverpool Football Club, the fund was launched in 2020 to assist local groups and organisations with innovative ideas for sustainable projects or initiatives in the areas surrounding Anfield.
Background of the Fund
The fund was created following a commitment by Liverpool FC to donate to a community grant fund each time a concert or major non-football event is held at Anfield. These funds are reinvested into the local area. The grants prioritise charities and not-for-profit community organisations that deliver activities aligned with the Foundation's charitable objectives across health, learning, and employment.
Initial Grants and Recent Beneficiaries
The first grants were awarded in 2022, including funding for a new cinema for young families and support for a local Bowling Club. This year, funds are addressing food insecurity through the work of Christ Church PPC, one of the ten most deprived parishes in England. The Community Basket CIC will support families facing food poverty by providing affordable essentials at their community-run food shop in Anfield.
Other Projects Funded
- Rage Performing Arts CIC will launch a 12-week performing arts programme offering a safe, supportive space for young females, LGBTQ+ young people aged 11-18, and those up to 25 with SEND needs.
- Reel in the Community will deliver community fishing sessions led by a qualified wellbeing angling coach, supporting people from all backgrounds experiencing mental health challenges.
- Liverpool Community Radio will use its funding to combat social isolation through local radio, media training, and inclusive hospitality.
- SS Development Academy CIC will offer a free football and mentoring programme called Goals Beyond the Games, providing young people with a safe, consistent space to play, talk, and connect.
- Vauxhall Law and Community Information Centre will provide free, trusted legal advice and advocacy to help people facing debt, housing, and welfare challenges regain stability, dignity, and confidence.
CEO Statement
Matt Parish, CEO of LFC Foundation, said: “As a charity our primary aim is to fundraise directly to support our own participants, however it’s also vital we support neighbouring community initiatives and partners through our Red Neighbours programme and specifically our Red Neighbours community fund. Working in partnership is crucial to long-term success and there are some unbelievable organisations in and around the Anfield area and beyond who do some life changing work that aligns with our own mission, and I am thrilled we are able to play a small part in making a further difference in our community.”
For more information about the Red Neighbours programme, visit the Liverpool FC website.
