True to the club's deeply held core values of community spirit, gender empowerment, and making football accessible to all, Kenningwell United WFC has officially handed over a major donation of more than 250 complete football kits, football boots, training bibs, sweatbands, and brand-new football kits to The Harvey McWilliams Foundation.
This vital contribution is headed straight to the charity's flagship "Boot Library" initiative, where the gear will be cleaned, organised, and distributed free of charge to disadvantaged children and young people who might otherwise be priced out of playing the game they love.
The Harvey McWilliams Foundation was established by the family of 18-year-old Darlington football fan Harvey McWilliams, who tragically lost his life to suicide in December 2021. Harvey was known during his life for his immense generosity, often giving away his own spare football gear to peers who lacked proper equipment. Today, the foundation honours his lasting legacy through a dual mission: eliminating the steep financial barriers to youth sports participation and breaking down the stubborn stigmas surrounding men’s and youth mental health.
By pulling together this donation, the players, coaches, and supporters at Kenningwell United WFC are directly helping to put shirts on the backs of young players across the country. In grassroots football, the cost of kits, shin pads, and boots can be an immense burden on low-income families. Initiatives like this ensure that every child—regardless of their financial background—gets the opportunity to step out onto the pitch, build self-esteem, enjoy the physical benefits of exercise, and find a safe, welcoming community.
This partnership beautifully aligns with Kenningwell United WFC's dedication to community action and inclusivity. Beyond simply donating sportswear, the club aims to use this platform to amplify the foundation's crucial message regarding mental well-being and suicide prevention, reminding everyone within the football family that it is okay to not be okay, and that support is always out there.
How You Can Get Involved: The work does not stop here.
Kenningwell United WFC is actively encouraging all club members, rival teams, and local supporters to clear out their kit bags, garages, and cupboards. If you have outgrown boots, clean shin pads, goalkeeper gloves, or training kits that are gathering dust, you can bring them down to our next home matchday drop-off point to help keep Harvey's motto alive: "Football is for everyone."