A Larne based football team established to help men cope with the grief of baby loss has been announced as the latest recipient of Brighter Futures funding.
Sands United FC Larne has received a grant of £500 from the Larne FC scheme, supported by Kilwaughter Minerals, which has already benefitted dozens of community projects within the town and surrounding areas.
The funds will be used to hire pitch facilities, ensuring the team can continue to train each week.
Johnathan Brown, Sands United FC Larne said:
“Our team was set up to provide support to men who have been affected by stillbirth and neonatal death, which unfortunately is still considered a taboo subject by many.
“Since Sands United FC Larne was founded nearly a year ago, we’ve welcomed dads, brothers, uncles and grandads to the team, and it’s been great to see so many men coming together to share their stories and really be there for one another.
“We are so grateful to receive funding from Brighter Futures as without this money we simply would not be able to continue to provide such a valuable outlet for so many men.”
This news comes during Sands Awareness Month, which aims to raise awareness of the facts and impacts relating to neonatal deaths and stillbirths.
The Brighter Futures Fund is facilitated by Larne FC, and recently received a £20,000 boost from local company, Kilwaughter Minerals.
Gary Wilmot, CEO, Kilwaughter Minerals said:
“Supporting social causes is a central element of Kilwaughter’s ethos, and we are proud to contribute towards the Brighter Futures Fund, and delighted we can play another part in benefitting our local community.
Grants of up to £500 for projects throughout the Larne area are available across four categories including Sport and Recreation, Business Enterprise, Education and Training and Community Needs.
Roy Logan, Charity Trustee, Brighter Futures Fund added:
“The Brighter Futures Fund was established with community at its heart, and we are so pleased to be able to provide financial aid to initiatives such as Sands United FC Larne.
“Brighter Futures has received an overwhelmingly positive response since its launch in 2020 and we look forward to providing assistance to many more worthy projects over the coming months and years.”
Sands United FC Larne train every Wednesday 7 – 8pm at Wellington Rec training pitch, Larne. More information can be found at www.northernireland.sands.org.uk or via the team Facebook page.
For more information about the Brighter Futures Fund, or to apply, please visit: https://www.larnefc.com/brighterfutures/