GFC aims for 'sixty smiles'

Saturday 07 December 2019

Guernsey FC is running its annual food bank today, where the club and its supporters collect non-perishable items which are then distributed among those in need across the island.

Previously, the club has collected enough items to make up to 59 hampers, so this year the Green Lions are aiming to make up 60 so they can distribute 'sixty smiles' this Christmas.

This weekend GFC are hosting Hythe Town, kicking off at 14:00 meaning any donations should be taken along to Footes Lane before the game, between 13:00 and 14:00. 

A spokesperson for GFC said: 

"Our lovely GFC Hamper Elves will then make up your kind donations into hampers for distribution to those islanders in need at Christmas time. Since the inception of this scheme in 2013, we have been able to provide a total of 268 hampers of festive cheer thanks to your generosity. Last year we made 57 hampers, and our record to date is 59. How about this year – can we smash our record and make it past 60 for the first time?

"Your help is very much appreciated, as we aim to bring “Sixty Smiles” to local households which would otherwise struggle to feel that special Christmas joy this December." 

GFC Director John Loveless, who organises the food bank alongside his wife, Caroline, said: “Over the years the generosity of our fans has enabled many families in the island to enjoy a better Christmas. The hampers make a real difference. The distributors of the food parcels have often been very touched by comments received back from the recipients."

Any donations should be checked before hand as they should be unopened and within their expiry date.

There'll also be an added surprise for younger fans at this weekend's home game, as Roary the Lion will be offering a 'yummy early Christmas treat' to the first hundred u16s through the gate.

Pictured: Roary the Lion. Image from the Guernsey FC Facebook.