West Ham United Women's team and sponsors Rainer Hughes Solicitors have joined forces to donate hundreds of Easter eggs and food packages to local Foodbanks.
Irons Supporting Foodbanks, the fan-led organisation which collects food and cash donations for Newham Foodbank in Beckton, visited Chadwell Heath this week, where Women’s team players Leanne Kiernan and Nor Mustafa helped load up the van with Easter eggs and food packages for distribution over Easter weekend.
Rainer Hughes Solicitors, who have provided sponsorship and support for the Women’s team since 2017, have also gone the extra mile to spread Easter cheer to those in need, by donating 25 food packages and 50 Easter eggs for Brentwood Foodbank in Essex.
Women’s team Managing Director Jack Sullivan expressed pride that the Hammers and Rainer Hughes could play their part in helping local people at Easter.
“We’re delighted that the Club, with the support of our amazing partners, can make a difference within our community during what has been an awful year for many, and hope that we can inspire others to help amazing charities like the Irons Supporting Foodbanks,” he said.
Rainer Hughes Senior Partner Sanjay Panesar said: “It is always a pleasure working with our partners West Ham United. It has now been over a year since this outbreak started and we have all witnessed the devastating and catastrophic effects had on society as a whole.
“The situation clearly is inclining towards the better, however, due to the reduction of jobs and opportunities in almost every sector this has had an impact on individuals and families struggling in some cases to even meet their essential needs.
“We feel rather humbled to be able to do something and give back to our local communities in a time of need together with our Partners. Rainer Hughes is with you today, for your tomorrow.”
John Ratomski from Irons Supporting Foodbanks welcomed the Club’s donation to Newham Foodbank at a time of year when many youngsters have to go without a traditional Easter treat.
He said: “We were delighted to be introduced to the Women’s team new sponsor Rainer Hughes and learn about their commitment to working with the local community. The donations of 50 Easter eggs and 25 large food parcels to Newham Foodbank were a bonus, and we thank Rainer Hughes on their behalf for this great gesture. We look forward to developing this very positive community relationship.
“We also acknowledge Jack Sullivan’s support in facilitating the partnership and introducing us to the West Ham Women’s team.”
Pastor Peter Graham, who works with Brentwood Foodbank, added: “A huge thank you to the West Ham women's team for their donations this Easter. We have seen a substantial increase in the number of children and young families this year and your support goes a long way in helping us to continue to provide for families in need.”
Women’s forward Kiernan was pleased to play her part in making the donation to local Foodbanks.
The Republic of Ireland international said: “It’s fantastic to be involved and see first-hand the amount of food and Easter eggs that have been donated by both Rainer Hughes and the Club. I hope that it brings a smile to people during what has been a tough time for everyone, but especially for those that are in need of support.”
To get involved and support Irons Supporting Foodbanks with their amazing work, please head to their JustGiving page.