Hawks Ultras to host Grenfell families on Saturday

For a number of years, Whitehawk supporters have been renowned for their creation of an inclusive atmosphere at the Enclosed Ground, their anti-racism, sexism and homophobia stance the subject of countless column inches and much praise. They’ve also become rather well known for their charity work, with collections of cash and food for local causes. This weekend, however, they take their efforts a step further, as twenty children and ten volunteers affected by the Grenfell Tower tragedy arrive in Brighton for a day by the sea, a fish and chip lunch and then the chance to be guests of honour at the match against Haringey Borough on Saturday- all arranged by the Hawks Ultras.

Whitehawk supporter Andrew Hughes-Boynton set up ‘Non-League for Grenfell’ an initiative designed, amongst other aims, to ‘Bring non-league fans and clubs closer together through initiatives in aid of those affected by Grenfell.’ As part of the group’s work, they created a Go Fund Me page to raise cash for this trip, and although they have met their target you can still donate HERE.

Tasha Brade of the Justice4Grenfell campaign, is delighted by the initiative:

“We are honoured to have been working alongside Non-League For Grenfell to help organise this day out for children and volunteers of a local Children’s charity in West London – Solidarity Sports, a small charity that works with vulnerable children in our area. Solidarity Sports lost an entire family of 5 on the night of the 14 June 2017, and their children and volunteers were deeply affected by this. We would like to thank everyone involved in making this day happen. It is true that happy memories can bring solace in the hardest of times.

Thank you to Non-League For Grenfell for their fundraising and organising and to Whitehawk FC, an incredible club that stands for exactly what Football should be about, for allowing us to come and see you play —we’re looking forward to a wonderful day.”

Andrew added:

“This is going to be a great day out – I can’t thank enough those who have offered to help. It’s really been overwhelming and the support is truly wonderful. We started back in May and this will be our first big organised event so it’s been all hands-on deck but a great experience! I’m looking forward to what’s going to be a wonderful day out and something I hope we will all cherish for years to come.”

Kevin Miller, head of commercial at Whitehawk FC, summed up the feelings of all at the club.

“On behalf of everyone at Whitehawk Football club I’d like to welcome Tasha and Sean, the children & volunteers, and hope they all have a wonderful day. I would also like to place on record how incredibly proud we are of our Ultras, and Andrew in particular. The Ultras actively promote the club’s stance on anti-homophobia, anti-sexism, anti-racism and non-violence. Their passion, dedication and hard work in setting this up demonstrates that Whitehawk Football Club is a very special place to be right now!”