Everton Hill Dickinson
Fans Supporting Foodbanks (FSF), an organization founded by Everton and Liverpool supporters, has marked its tenth anniversary. Established on October 17, 2015, by Everton fans Dave Kelly and Robbie Daniels, alongside Liverpool supporter and West Derby MP Ian Byrne, the organization has grown significantly over the years. In 2020, Liverpool fan Paul Khan joined the management team, further expanding FSF’s reach. Today, FSF has a formal board of trustees and continues its mission to combat food poverty by uniting football fans across the region.
Dave Kelly said: “When Robbie, Ian and I first stood outside the Winslow pub opposite Goodison Park with a wheelie bin to collect food, we never thought that ten years later we’d still be doing what we do. You never know who might need our help but while they do, we will be there.”
FSF has made a significant impact by collecting food and household goods at home matches of Liverpool and Everton football clubs. The organization estimates that its efforts help feed up to 2,500 people per week. Beyond providing food, FSF pantries also offer warmth and friendship to those in need. The organization emphasizes the importance of government accountability in addressing food poverty, highlighting that a government should ensure not just survival but the ability to thrive.
Robbie Daniels said: “I recently met someone at one of the pantries and while enjoying a chat, they told me I was the first person they’d had a proper conversation with since the previous week.”
Ian Byrne said: “The spectre of hunger, and the urgent need for a Right to Food, is very real here in Liverpool, where far too many people continue to experience it. We must legislate for a Right to Food and enforce food rights, ensuring that all governments are held accountable for the cost of food and for making sure no one goes hungry.”
Dave Kelly added: “Our mission statement has always been ‘Close us down’. We live in the sixth richest economy in the world, and we shouldn’t have people reliant on foodbanks. But, while we still do, we will be here to help people who need us most.”
FSF has successfully shared its ethos with football fans across various leagues, leading to similar foodbank collections at matches in England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. This weekend, collections will take place at Anfield, where Liverpool faces Manchester United, and at the Etihad Stadium, where Everton plays Manchester City. These events unite fans from rival clubs in a common cause, demonstrating the power of football to bring communities together for social good.
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