Disadvantaged children from across Dundee are to be offered free tickets to football matches this season thanks to the generosity of Dundee United supporters.
The United for Kids charity, Dundee United Football Club and Dundee City Council have been organising free tickets to some of the city’s poorest children for over a decade.
Suggested by “exiled” fan Dr Andy Holt in 2005, Dundee United Football Club promised to meet “every penny” donated by fans and the scheme has continued to grow.
Lord Provost Bob Duncan said: “In Dundee we are committed to getting it right for every child and their families. This means no matter your background or circumstances, children, young people and families should have the same opportunities and chances as anyone.
“We have had excellent feedback from children and parents who attended last year.
“Improving the health and wellbeing of our children and young people is a priority. With so many tickets going to a wide variety of agencies working with children and family services across the city, it creates an opportunity for them to regularly enjoy going out together as a family and supporting a local football team, which brings a range of health and wellbeing benefits.”
David Mulholland, on behalf of United for All said: “This initiative is so worthwhile and we are proud to continue to support it.
“Creating opportunities for these youngsters is only possible with the continued generosity of the United fans.”
Dundee United Chairman Stephen Thompson said: “When Andy Holt came to the club ten years ago with this concept, I do not think anyone could have envisaged it being the success it continues to be.
“Dundee United are proud of our strong community ties and the United for Kids campaign is an integral part of that. Working closely with Dundee City Council and United for All and our fans, we continue to allow disadvantaged youngsters the opportunity to come along to Tannadice.”
