Hi I'm Tina a parent and assistant manager of the Mitcham Park Fc U10s team.

I've lived and worked in merton for over 10 years

I seen a need in our local community and I'm asking for your help ❤️

⚽ Help a Child in Merton Play Football – Support the Kickstart Fund!

Every child deserves the chance to play football — but for many families in Merton, the £190 registration fee is a barrier they simply can’t overcome. That’s why Mitcham Park FC launched the Kickstart Fund: to break down financial barriers and give every child the opportunity to join the team.

The Local Challenge:

An estimated 25–29% of children in Merton live in poverty — that’s nearly 1 in 4 kids who may miss out, just because of cost .

Many of those children depend on free school meals — around 22% of pupils in Merton receive this support .

Why Sport Makes a Difference:

Youth who participate in team sports are 44% less likely to engage in antisocial behavior, and 14% less likely to reoffend when given ongoing support .

A London-based study found that early sport-based intervention builds trusted relationships, creates safe spaces, and helps prevent future youth violence .

Community sport programs have a proven impact on reducing crime and enhancing wellbeing .

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What the Kickstart Fund Will Do:

Provide full or partial funding (up to £190) to children facing hardship

Operate transparently and with full confidentiality

Be overseen by a small, trusted panel from Mitcham Park FC

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How You Can Help:

Sponsor a child (£190 covers a full season)

Donate any amount – even small contributions make a difference

Share this campaign with friends, neighbours, and local connections

Our Goal:

To raise enough funds to ensure no child is left out, and to help build confidence, teamwork, and resilience—one football match at a time.

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Join Us – Make a Difference Today:

By supporting the Kickstart Fund, you're not just donating — you're investing in futures, deterring youth crime, and strengthening our community.

Thank you for helping us kick-start a brighter future for Merton’s kids.

update 25/26 season

****your donations enabled 5 players to either full or partial funding ❤️❤️ **