AFC Didsbury Sent Packing for Francis House

Francis House provides care for children and young adults with life threatening conditions. It is an extremely worthy charitable cause, and is AFC Didsbury's chosen charity of the year for 2014-15. 

Over Christmas, the players and 'WAGs' took part in a couple of events aimed at spreading a bit of cheer whilst raising some well-needed money for the Francis House cause.

The annual AFCD Christmas Party went off with a bang as usual. Party-goers headed down to Didsbury Sports Ground and were in full-voice, as karaoke classics from One D to Whitesnake were bellowed out throughout the evening. A delicious supper of pulled pork & apple was served up, kindly provided by the guys down at AB World Foods, and a charity raffle was greatly received. Raffle prizes had been amassed by everyone involved in the team, and a big thank you must go out to those kind enough to donate. Through a combination of entry fees, raffle ticket sales and busking (karaoke style), £1,318.26 was raised for Francis House on the night. 

The fundraising didn't stop there though. The Saturday before Christmas saw a team of players & WAGs take to the tills of Marks & Spencer Simply Food in Sale to help shoppers pack those last few Christmas essentials into their bags. Packing shopping bags doesn't come easy for some people, but the team lasted a full day with only 2 broken eggs and a squashed banana named among the victims. Their efforts didn't go unnoticed, as a grand total of £702.38 was collected as a show of appreciation. Again, a big thank you must go to the staff at M&S and their customers in helping to raise such a generous amount.

And here's what Francis House have had to say...

"On behalf of the children and families of Francis House Children's Hospice thank you for helping to raise a fantastic total £702.38 at your Christmas bag pack at M&S Sale. It's a really impressive amount to raise from just one day, I hope you're pleased!

Your contribution will help us continue to care for over 370 children, teenagers and young adults with life shortening conditions. At our base in Didsbury, Manchester, we provide specialist care in a homely, happy and secure place, helping the children to live life to the full and offering much needed support, friendship and encouragement to their families. Our recent building project has doubled the size of Francis House with the opening of a further seven bedrooms providing an age appropriate environment for teenagers and young people. Each year we rely on the generosity of people like you to help us raise £3.6 million."

The second half of the season will no doubt bring more fundraising opportunities, and the AFCD lads and WAGs will be hoping to add to the this season's already hefty donation.

AFC Didsbury will be looking for a shirt sponsor for the 2015-16 season. For the chance to get your brand associated with the good work the team does for the South Manchester community please get in touch via email at info@afcdidsbury.co.uk or tweet us at @AFCDidsbury