Stamford Bridge was fixtureless at the weekend but it certainly was not lifeless, as a supporter-led event generated money to help tackle homelessness as well as support vulnerable and disabled veterans to lead fulfilling, independent lives.
At the seventh annual Stamford Bridge Big Sleep Out, which was staged with the help and co-operation of Chelsea Football Club, a hardy group of supporters bedded down for the night under the East Stand with beneficiaries of the sponsored night being The Stoll Foundation and Barons Court Project. All funds raised are being evenly shared between these two charities and if you did not participate but wish to donate, you can do so by clicking here
Former Chelsea player Gary Chivers joined in the Sleep Out and was even successful in a raffle that was held - winning a shirt signed by the current team.
Over 30 other past players, covering five decades of on-pitch service, contributed to a video of support that was played to the fans taking part this year before they took their makeshift beds. It was also a chance to hear about the charities and the work they do, and potentially find out how to help a homeless person next time one is met.
The Stamford Bridge lights were turned off at 11pm and everyone woke the next day to breakfast provided by the club.
Mark Meehan, from Chelsea Supporters’ Trust who organise the Sleep Out, said:
‘Thanks to everyone who came and slept out on Saturday night. With donations still coming in, we have raised £16,000 to date so far for both charities.
‘When we started the Big Stamford Bridge Sleep Out seven years ago I never thought that by now we would be here having raised 165k to date for homeless charities. It once again shows the amazing things Chelsea supporters can do when they gather together to help make a difference.
‘In London last year a record high of 13,231 people were recorded as sleeping rough and the number of people doing so for two years or longer has increased by 27 per cent, the highest ever annual rise.
‘Every penny raised by the Stamford Bridge Sleep Out makes a difference. At Barons Court Project, even a small donation of £5 can pay for a meal and a hot shower. Larger donations could help buy expert help for homeless service users from an IT person, buy the ingredients for nutritious meals for homeless people, or help homeless people towards training and employment.
‘At Stoll Foundation, £10 can provide an hour of essential one-to-one support for a vulnerable veteran, £50 can fund activity to boost the mental and physical health of a group of veterans, and £100 can buy a recycled laptop or tablet and IT skills training for a veteran which will help to increase their independence.’