Tesco shoppers are providing essential funding to the ‘Let’s Play Rugby Croydon’ initiative, a project by The Matt Ratana Rugby Foundation aimed at giving local children the opportunity to experience the sport of rugby and its supportive, tolerant ethos.
Thanks to a Stronger Starts donation of £1,500, the supermarket is helping to bring this inclusive program to life, enabling children from underprivileged neighbourhoods to engage in a positive, team-oriented activity.
The ‘Let’s Play Rugby Croydon’ initiative focuses on introducing kids to the sport who might not otherwise have the opportunity, promoting physical activity, teamwork, and resilience. The project is particularly crucial in an area where young people often face significant challenges, including a high incidence of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). These challenges can severely impact their educational and employment prospects and make them vulnerable to negative influences.
Claire De Silva, Head of Communities at Tesco, said: “We’re delighted to support the ‘Let’s Play Rugby Croydon’ initiative. This project perfectly aligns with our commitment to supporting local communities and offering young people positive outlets for growth and development. We hope this partnership will make a meaningful impact on the lives of these children.”
Tom Lowe, a spokesperson for The Matt Ratana Rugby Foundation, added: “Our goal with ‘Let’s Play Rugby Croydon’ is to provide a safe and supportive environment where kids can learn not just the sport of rugby, but also invaluable life skills such as teamwork, discipline, and respect. Thanks to Tesco’s generous donation, we can reach more children and give them the chance to be part of something positive and empowering.”
The £1,500 donation from Tesco will be used to cover essential costs, such as equipment and facilities, ensuring that the program is accessible to as many children as possible. This support is vital for offering a structured, inclusive environment where young people can thrive.
Since Tesco launched its Community Grants programme in 2016, over £100 million has been given to more than 50,000 local schools and community groups. The Matt Ratana Rugby Foundation was one of three groups selected for the Tesco Stronger Starts blue token vote, which concluded at the end of March 2024.
Schools and children’s groups interested in applying for a grant can do so via Groundwork by visiting www.tescoplc.com/strongerstarts. Successful applications will be put to a vote in local Tesco stores, where customers decide which projects to support with their blue tokens.
For more information about The Matt Ratana Rugby Foundation and ‘Let’s Play Rugby Croydon,’ visit www.mattratanafoundation.org.
