THE Burton Albion under 15s visited YMCA Burton last week, as the young Brewers were given an insight into the work that the charity does.
Some of the players who visited the Reconnect centre took part in the YMCA Sleepout 2017 at the Pirelli Stadium, as the Academy raised more than ÂŁ600 towards the cause. They were able to see how that money has helped during the visit.
The under 15s were given a tour of the centre. The players were shown around by members of staff from YMCA Burton, who explained their roles and answered questions. The young Brewers were shown all aspects of how the YMCA help those in need, including a shower room and a food storage room.
Paula Senior from YMCA Burton was pleased to welcome the players and give them in insight into the inner workings of the charity.
She said: “It was absolutely brilliant to come and engage with the guys before the Sleepout, so for them to be able to see why they gave up their beds for the night, the purpose and to see a snapshot of what we do here. It is brilliant to invite them back and for them to be interested and ask questions is brilliant.
“Because we have to raise our own money, the players taking part in the Sleepout is amazing. I know that the lads went home and told their parents and friends about what we do, and if they ever come across somebody in need they know where to direct them.
“We rely heavily in the community, whether that is volunteers or food donations or even attending our fundraising events, we could not do it without them, thank you to everybody who does that.”
Under 15s player Luke Zona said: “It was really helpful, I feel like I got to understand the area more and how it all works. It makes more sense now, you see the reality of what people go through and what they must be feeling to actually feel like they cannot go on any further.
“It felt really good knowing that we have done something that really helps and makes a difference to multiple people’s lives.”