Celtic fans sleep out at sub-zero Parkhead and raise £50,000 for charity

Celtic fans brave sub-zero temperatures at Parkhead to raise over £50,000 for charity. Around 125 devoted Hoops supporters participated in a sleep out event at Celtic Park, enduring freezing conditions on Sunday, November 17, all in aid of the Celtic FC Foundation. The chill of the night did not deter these passionate fans from coming together to contribute to a worthy cause. As temperatures plummeted below freezing, the supporters bundled up to collect funds for the foundation’s Christmas Appeal 2024. Glasgow Live reports that every penny raised from the event will go towards helping those in need through the foundation.

Before settling in for the night, the participants were welcomed by Head of Foundation Jane Maguire and had the privilege of hearing from manager Brendan Rodgers via the foundation’s 2024 Christmas Appeal VT. The event also saw former Celtic captain Stephen McManus in attendance, showing his support by joining the group for a group photo and offering words of encouragement for the challenging night ahead. To keep warm throughout the night, an endless supply of hot beverages like tea, coffee, and Bovril was provided to the brave fans who braved the cold.

After the long night, the group had the option to donate their sleeping bags and mats. The event concluded with a hearty breakfast in the Jock Stein Lounge, where generous food donations were made by club suppliers Bidfood, Campbell Prime Meats, and Premier Produce. A Celtic FC Foundation spokesperson expressed gratitude, stating, “Celtic FC Foundation would like to thank each and every Sleep Out participant for their incredible efforts, as well as everyone who supported them along the way. You have made a genuine difference to those in our community who are most in need.”

The Celtic Foundation’s Christmas Appeal is dedicated to providing support to local families to ensure they have a memorable festive season. The final Sleep Out event of the 2024 appeal will take place on December 13 at St Anne’s Primary School in Whitechapel, marking the foundation’s seventh event in London. Donations to the Celtic Foundation’s Christmas appeal can be made online to continue making a positive impact on those in need.

The enduring commitment and spirit shown by Celtic fans in coming together for a noble cause exemplifies the strong sense of community and compassion present within the club’s supporters. The event not only raised vital funds for those in need but also showcased the unwavering dedication of Celtic fans to make a difference in the lives of others through collective action and solidarity.