AAA’s Chief Executive Jonny Boux also highlighted the need, saying: “Last year, nearly 3,000 vulnerable children were referred to the Appeal and with many local families in Newham continuing to experience rising challenges, there is every chance that number will be exceeded this year. Well over 50 per cent of Newham’s children are now experiencing the consequences caused by the daily grind of poverty, with many families increasingly struggling to make ends meet, through no fault of their own. Our campaign in itself cannot solve the issue, but it can make a tremendous difference to a child at a time when the effects of poverty are amplified during the season of giving.”
There are many ways to support and thanks to the generosity of the Club, we are delighted that includes donating new toys to the Appeal’s Giving Tree, based at the Stadium Store. Any donations of new toys supporters can give would be truly appreciated. Direct support can also be provided via our dediated appeal giving page HERE.
Ambition Aspire Achieve was founded by life-long Hammers fan and inspirational charity leader Kevin Jenkins OBE. Kevin sadly passed away in 2021, but his vision lives on, ensuring every child we engage, no matter their circumstances, is given every chance to succeed and fulfil their potential. Against that backdrop, our work over the past year has reached over 950 vulnerable young people, providing opportunities and experiences that change lives. This has included everything from daily term-time after school clubs and holiday activities based out of our neighbourhood youth and play hubs, the Terence Brown Arc in the Park in Canning Town and the Glyn Hopkin Abbey Hub, just around the corner from the stadium in Stratford.
This year we have also established our brand new woodland facility and outdoor adventure space next door to our Stratford centre, recently named again after our founder as the ‘Kevin Jenkins OBE Outdoor Learning Centre’. The facility has already welcomed large numbers of local children and their families, with a full programme set for 2025, providing young people with new outdoor learning and play opportunities.