The country has been in lockdown for 112 days. Only recently have restrictive measures been eased as everyone attempts to return to some kind of life as we knew it.
Through it all MFC Foundation have stood firm, doing what we have been able to do where it was safe to do so. We’ll continue to do that for as long as we are able.
It would have been impossible to reach the levels of support without the help and generosity of so many, in particular our staff who have risen to the challenge, met it head on, inspiring hope and confidence and genuinely making a difference to hundreds of lives.
“I am always proud of the staff at MFC Foundation,” says Foundation Head Helena Bowman. “They are hard-working, dedicated and passionate about what they do. During lockdown they have proved an invaluable support to the local community, whether working from home or in the heart of Teesside.
“It has been an extremely challenging time for us all and we are pleased we have been able to support the community and make a difference, however big or small. Thank you to everyone involved.”
At the end of term it is apt that work in the education field is acknowledged. We’ve created a Virtual Classroom which, from a standing start, has gone on to become an example followed by many around the country and helped so many schools and parents. Stepping Up staff have implemented their transition programme in the most difficult of circumstances, as it has been with Primary Stars and Inspires.
If everything goes according to plan, Kicks will make a welcome return soon. Online tournaments in the virtual world have proved popular, but there is a real enthusiasm to be back out playing again and a lot of work has gone on to help make that happen.
Incredibly, NCS will run this summer. The build-up to that is a story in itself, but the drive and commitment shown by Foundation staff has ensured no-one who wants to be a part of it will miss out. There’s still time to be involved, e-mail ncs@mfcfoundation.co.uk for more details on that one.
Communities have benefited from a workforce that is second to none in their endeavour to help. Be that in central Teesside with a FITFANS group, deliveries of food or ppe equipment to individuals, or like-minded community help organisations, doctors, nurses and key workers, or just simply by being there or on the end of a phone.
Work replicated in East Cleveland where efforts are inspiring and endless and helping communities to come together in so many practical ways.
The figures are astonishing and a testament to the work undertaken in the most testing of times, delivered by staff who care.