Oxford United has backed a homelessness charity to help people who have experienced living without the security of a roof over their head.
Emmaus Oxford received a £1,000 donation from a fund linked to Oxford United’s Dreaming Spires project, an initiative designed to deliver significant positive impact across the county through activities and outreach programmes as part of the Club’s new stadium delivery.
Via its Healthy Hearts programme, Emmaus Oxford runs a selection of weekly movement sessions including yoga, football, swimming, ice skating, boxing, personal training, walking and cycling.
Based in Cowley, the charity provides active support to 28 formerly homeless people at any one time with the aim of helping them rebuild their lives in a lasting way. It offers long-term accommodation and meaningful work programmes via a range of social enterprise initiatives which teach new skills and experiences.
The Club’s donation will help provide essential sports clothes and equipment to enable people to take part in activities aimed at improving physical and mental health.
Laura Bristow, Fundraising Manager for Emmaus Oxford, said: “This funding has given our Healthy Hearts programme a real boost and will directly help deliver positive outcomes.
“People experiencing homelessness battle significant health inequalities, including having an average age of death that’s around 30 years lower than the general population. Many of our companions have been homeless for significant periods in their lives and most struggle with some physical health condition because of that experience.
“That’s why Oxford United’s support is vital and we’d like to say a big thank you to the Club for its generous support.”
Adam Benson, Chief Commercial and Marketing Officer at Oxford United, added: “Emmaus Oxford is a fantastic organisation that makes a significant positive impact on the lives of those affected by homelessness in the city.
“As a community club, we’re passionate about encouraging people to get active for their mental and physical health, so supporting the Emmaus Oxford team aligned with our values.”
Ten Oxfordshire-based not-for-profit organisations that support the provision of sport and physical activity, as well as health and wellbeing programmes, were selected by a judging panel to each win a £1,000 grant. The successful applicants demonstrated how the funding would help them make improvements and deliver more impact in our communities.
The grants will be used for projects ranging from providing new kit and equipment through to improving community facilities.
The Dreaming Spires project includes a variety of initiatives such as work experience, apprenticeship and employment opportunities for students and young professionals, plus mental health support programmes, mentoring and education. It consists of five core elements which prioritise opportunity, accessibility, people’s mental wellbeing, development and local legacy.
Oxford United has submitted a planning application with Cherwell District Council to build a 16,000 capacity all-electric stadium north of Oxford, featuring a 180-bed hotel, restaurant, conference centre, health and wellbeing space and a community plaza.
