This year is a very special year for the Foundation of Light as we celebrate 20 years of using the power of football to support tens of thousands of people across the North East to live happier and healthier lives.

Since we officially became a charity in 2001, we have grown from a handful of staff to become one of the biggest football charities in the country employing over 100 staff, with over 170 volunteers and its very own state-of-the-art sports and education facility, the Beacon of Light.

Thanks to donors, corporate partners and community fundraising, the Foundation reinvests millions back into Sunderland, South Tyneside and County Durham communities each year through delivery of over 40 sport, employability, health and wellbeing and education programmes, tackling some of the regions biggest societal challenges such as obesity, poor mental health, unemployment and anti-social behaviour.

This year we're aiming to raise £50,000 to support critical mental health and employability projects.

Just £4 can provide dance and sport sessions for a child with disabilities, whilst £5 helps us support an isolated older person through telephone befriending, care packages and online activities.

Play your part and help us make a difference to thousands of lives today.