Tottenham Hotspur Women captain Bethany England and winger Hayley Raso spent the afternoon last Friday with children and families at Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice in North London.
Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice is the official charity partner of Tottenham Hotspur. It supports babies, children, and young people with life-limiting or life-threatening conditions, and their families, in North and Central London – helping them to make the most of every day.
Two families who benefit from the charity’s work were in attendance on the day, including Willow, who has been supported by Noah’s Ark since 2020. Willow, six, was diagnosed with Type 2 Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) when she was 18 months old and was the star of the charity’s recent ‘From that Moment’ campaign, supported by the Club, that raised over £1m to support its vital work.
England and Raso were led by Chief Executive Sophie Andrews OBE in a tour of the Ark’s facilities, which the Club helped raise funds to build as part of its long-term partnership.
Bethany England said: “We had an amazing tour and were able to learn about the incredible care that Noah’s Ark is giving to these families. It is clear that it is not just the children themselves, but also the support network provided to the families that makes Noah’s Ark’s work so important.
“It was so great to see the smiles on the kids’ faces in spite of the challenges they are facing. I feel very privileged to have spent the afternoon with them.”
Hayley Raso added: “The building here at Noah’s Ark is absolutely beautiful and it was a joy to meet with some of the families supported by the charity. I am proud to raise awareness of all the incredible work being done here through the partnership with the Club.”
Simon, whose daughter Ruby is supported by Noah’s Ark, said: “Ruby loves coming to Noah’s Ark, she always gets so excited when we are driving over. So many lovely memories have been made here and today is no exception. It was lovely to meet Beth and Hayley, they really took the time to play with Ruby and Willow, even getting in the ball-pit! It was wonderful to see.”
Earlier this year, men’s vice-captain James Maddison also undertook a tour of The Ark, visiting The Therapies Wing and The Accessible Playground before gifting the families a hamper of Spurs-themed games and toys.
Following his visit, Maddison was so inspired by the work of the charity that he dedicated his annual golf day to the Ark in the May, raising £75,000.
The North London Derby fixture against Arsenal Women on 16th November will be dedicated to celebrating our partnership with Noah’s Ark. Fans attending the game will be able to support Noah’s Ark’s invaluable work by donating via volunteer fundraisers located in the Stadium, in the Tottenham Experience and at Seven Sisters Station.
Sophie Andrews OBE, CEO of Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice said: “We were so happy to welcome Bethany and Hayley to The Ark. It was wonderful for them to meet some of the families we support and see the amazing facilities we have here. We are looking forward to celebrating our partnership with the club at the upcoming North London Derby.”
To support Noah’s Ark you can text NOAH to 70490 to donate £10. Texts will cost the donation amount + one standard network rate message.
