NUFC Foundation teens raise funds for Tyneside elderly

TEENAGE volunteers from the Newcastle United Foundation have been auctioning good deeds to raise funds for elderly Tyneside care home residents.

The 16- and 17-year-olds from the Foundation’s National Citizenship Service (NCS) Changemakers group have sold dog walks and car cleaning, as well as help for family and friends, in support of those living at Waverley Lodge Care Home, in Lemington.

Two participants also started regular bake sales at their school, selling sweet treats to fellow pupils and staff, with all the proceeds going to the elderly residents.

In total, the group has raised £117 for the residents’ fund, which goes towards activities and outings for those living at the care home.

The group was inspired to fundraise after spending time with the residents during the summer, when they ran activity sessions and revamped several areas of the garden, including pruning the bushes, weeding the flower beds and paving, and planting new flowers.

The care home’s residents have sent hand-made thank you cards to show their appreciation to the young people, finger painting summery scenes and writing personal notes.

Robert Sheldon, 78, said: “That’s fantastic. They’re all good kids.”

Kathleen Harle, 74, said: “What a lovely idea. That’s so kind and thoughtful of them.”

Sally Keating, 79, said: “I loved all the children. They’re so kind.”

Margaret Smith, 80, said: “That’s brilliant what they’ve done for the care home.”

Torin, one of the Changemakers participants from the NUFC Foundation’s NCS programme, said: “I personally wanted to help and fundraise with my friends as it felt like I was finally putting time into doing more good deeds for my community.

“It was great to be proud of doing something as a team with new people and old friends while helping the community.”

Lesley-Ann Scott, project officer at NUFC Foundation, said: “I just want to express my gratitude to the staff at Waverley Lodge Care Home for allowing us all to gain an insight into the care service, for making us feel welcome and for supporting the great work the changemakers have done. I will look forward to working with them again in the future.”

Emma Walker, activities coordinator at Waverley Lodge Care Home, said: “The young people from Newcastle United Foundation NCS were delightful when they spent time with our residents last summer.

“When we found out the Changemakers had done lots of good deeds and raised more for the residents fund we were deeply touched.  Thank you so much to everyone for your kindness.”