Our 97th consecutive donation was made to ‘Jeun’Espoir Asso’ an association based in Lille, made up of young volunteers, mainly aged 15 to 25 years old. The presentation was made at the “3 Brasseurs” restaurant near the stadium, a few hours before the friendly match versus France.
Jeun’Espoir was formed in 2018, when a young relative was affected by cancer. The young volunteers were inspired to visit hospitals to meet sick children to bring them a little joy. They offer the children a range of activities including bringing in magicians and dressing up as mascots to create a show for them, and giving presents, as well as activities more suitable for children with disabilities. Future projects will include acquiring new toys for children’s wards, and a recent project since our visit involved bringing special costumes to the local hospital for the children to dress up in themselves. So far, they have financed their work through fundraising including cake sales, cross-country, lotteries and charity concerts. Their work fits perfectly with the aims of the Sunshine Appeal, with young people bringing a ray of sunshine to hospitalised children, and our donation will allow them to expand and increase their activities.
At the presentation, we met Mathilde, Zélie, Manon, Mathias and Enzo from the association, an inspirational young team who talked to us about their fantastic activities. We all waited patiently for our Chairman, Neil Forbes to arrive, as he seemed to be having some difficulties with Google Maps and navigating the Lille Métro, but happily we were able to present the cheque for £4,500 (around 5,000 Euros) with the local newspaper also in attendance. Many thanks to the Tartan Army supporters that came along to the presentation, in particular to Mark Love, who provided piping entertainment including La Marseillaise, to the delight of our hosts.
Thank you to all our supporters, who allow us to continue to help great causes around the world.
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