The Football League Announces Help the Hospices as Official Charity Partner

England’s soccer organisation, The Football League. has announced Help the Hospices as its Official Charity Partner for the 2011/12 season.

As the national charity for hospice care, Help the Hospices represents and supports local hospices, and champions the very best care for everyone facing the end of their life.

Chosen by fans following a public vote on The Football League website, Help the Hospices will benefit from unrivalled exposure across The League’s 72 member clubs.

The partnership will officially launch on Monday 25 July 2011 with the ‘Sunflower Sprint’ mascot race at Uttoxeter Racecourse, Staffordshire where Football League furry mascots will dash down a 100m stretch of the course.

David Praill, Chief Executive of Help the Hospices, said: “We are delighted to have the chance to work alongside The Football League this season, so that hospices across the UK can continue to care for 360,000 people every year – which could fill Wembley stadium four times over.

“This is an exciting opportunity for local hospices to tell millions of football fans about their important work.”

Football League crowds topped 16 million last season, and statistically half of those attending games will know someone who has been cared for by a hospice.

Fundraising activities this season are set to include bucket collections and fan initiatives, as well as a dedicated week of action from 7 to 13 March 2011 where all 72 League clubs will stage a game in support of Help the Hospices.

Greg Clarke, Chairman of The Football League, said: “Like Football League clubs, hospices operate at the heart of their local communities.

“This season, with the support of all 72 League clubs, hospices will continue to provide vital care for adults and children with life-limiting and terminal illnesses across England and Wales.”