The EFL has today (November 30) launched ‘Together – Supporting Communities’, an initiative to support the communities and fans of the 72 League clubs during the cost of living crisis.
The scheme will see EFL clubs provide community services and matchday offers to help people in challenging economic times and will contribute towards the government’s 'Help for Households' initiative.
In rapid response, EFL clubs and their respective Club Community Organisations (CCOs) have already rolled out a variety of support to those hit the hardest, with foodbanks, clothing donations and even 'heat hubs' providing lifelines to members of disadvantaged communities in England and Wales.
EFL partners eBay, Lifebuoy and Papa Johns will also be joining the initiative, by providing ticketing and food offers for the rest of the season.
eBay will be using its partnership with the EFL to allow supporters and people in the local community, who may not usually be able to attend EFL fixtures, to do so through the provision of matchday tickets, further showcasing a commitment and drive to bring communities, and EFL clubs within them, together.
Lifebuoy will also provide tickets to EFL matches, specifically targeting families in need.
Papa Johns is offering all EFL ticket holders 50 per cent off pizza through their 'Show Us Your Ticket' campaign. This season-long campaign aims to boost fans’ matchday experience and reward their loyalty during the cost-of-living crisis.
EFL chief executive Trevor Birch said: "Providing a warm stadium for a coffee morning, a regular food bank or clothing collections, 'Together – Supporting Communities' will offer real tangible help for those people hit hardest by the cost of living crisis within our communities.
"While EFL clubs support people all year round, we recognise that now more than ever, we should come together and maximise the power of our network to support people who are struggling."
Sports minister Stuart Andrew added: "Football clubs are the heart and soul of their communities and this new initiative with the EFL shows the true value of these community assets.
“Clubs are nothing without their fans and in difficult times it is great to see clubs reaching out to help their followers with so much support.
"The government is helping people struggling this winter with our Help for Households programme and I warmly welcome the 'Together – Supporting Communities' scheme, which will provide another vital lifeline.”
Click here to find out more and see the full list of EFL club offers, including at Pompey.