In a heartfelt gesture, the Manchester Munich Memorial Foundation (MMMF) has generously donated £12,000 to Francis House Children’s Hospice, reinforcing its commitment to supporting charitable causes. The donation, a result of MMMF’s dedicated fundraising efforts, was unveiled during a visit by foundation representatives Ifty Ahmed and Anthony Crook.
The MMMF, established to preserve the legacy of the Busby Babes, orchestrated various fundraising events, including a Gala Dinner attended by over 400 Manchester United fans and committee members. This sizable contribution will aid Francis House in its mission to provide professional care, support, and respite for families with children facing life-limiting and life-threatening conditions.
During the visit, representatives from MMMF, accompanied by Francis House executives, explored the hospice facilities, emphasizing the impact of the donation on services such as respite care, day care, homecare, and emotional support. The hospice’s multi-sensory rooms, designed to offer soothing sounds and visual stimulation to children with life-limiting conditions, were a focal point of the tour.
Ifty Ahmed, Chairman of MMMF, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to support Francis House, stating, “It is our pleasure and honor to support Francis House, and we will continue to do so for many years in the future.” He highlighted that the donation was a result of MMMF’s commitment to transparency, ensuring guests at fundraising events were aware that proceeds would be dedicated to charities like Francis House.
The MMMF’s overarching mission includes organizing the annual Munich Air Disaster memorial service in Germany, with funds raised also benefiting disadvantaged youth in Belgrade, Manchester, and Munich. Notably, a portion of the yearly funds facilitates a young person’s journey to Trudering-Riem for the anniversary, embodying the group’s dedication to preserving the memory of the Busby Babes.
David Ireland, CEO of Francis House, acknowledged the profound impact of the support received, stating, “For them [families], this is life-changing. Long may this association continue, and thanks so much for everybody involved.”
Francis House, located in Didsbury, Manchester, operates as a home away from home for families facing challenging circumstances. With an annual operational cost of £4.8 million, the majority of funding is sourced from charitable donations, making contributions from institutions like MMMF crucial to sustaining their vital services.
The MMMF’s latest donation exemplifies the power of community-driven initiatives and underscores the enduring legacy of the Busby Babes, ensuring their memory resonates through charitable endeavours for generations to come.
