Plymouth Argyle Launch Social Impact Project
Plymouth Argyle has announced the launch of a brand-new community social impact project for Plymouth, Project 35, in partnership with Ginsters and the Argyle Community Trust.
Project 35 is a landmark social action initiative aimed at reducing poverty in Plymouth, through a comprehensive campaign of fund-raising, awareness raising, social outreach, food donations, education, and charity support.
The Project’s titular number, 35, represents the percentage of children in Plymouth reported to be living in poverty in some wards of the city, according to the most recent (2019) pre-pandemic data.
By partnering with Ginsters – a nationally renowned food business – they will use the power of Argyle, its stakeholders, and fans to deliver a large-scale social impact campaign through the Argyle Community Trust.
A wide range of food poverty initiatives will take place throughout the lifespan of Project 35, including providing free meals for children from deprived areas during school holidays, weekend hampers, and dedicated food appeals at Argyle matches throughout the season, alongside permanent food donation points being introduced at Home Park.
In addition, Project 35 will support families most affected by poverty with additional educational and pastoral care.
Project 35 will adorn the front of Argyle’s men’s, women’s and Academy shirts for the duration of the 22/23 season to raise awareness of the harsh reality that many local families are facing amid a cost-of-living crisis.
While appearing on the club’s front of shirt for a season, Project 35 will be a multi-year commitment. Year one will focus primarily on food poverty, starting with a pledge from Ginsters to deliver 100,000 free lunches to local children in 22/23 via the Argyle Community Trust, as well as donation of staff time at both Ginsters and Argyle over the course of the Project.
Plymouth Argyle Head of Commercial Operations, James Greenacre, said: “This is the most exciting and ambitious front of shirt partnership I have been involved in at the club, and we cannot wait to bring it to life in the season ahead. Project 35 has the potential to have a huge impact on our local community, using the power of Argyle for social good.”
As a result of this partnership, Ginsters will remain the club’s Principal Partner, but the renowned pasty manufacturer has opted to donate shirt sponsorship to Project 35, as well as committing operations and awareness support.
Andrew Parkinson, Argyle Chief Executive Officer and Argyle Community Trust trustee, said: “Firstly, I must express our gratitude to our partners at Ginsters for their incredible backing of Project 35 – the opportunity to effect change in our community would not be as great without their participation.
“Project 35 is a chance for us at Argyle to give back to Plymouth after decades of unwavering support – through good times and bad. The club deeply understands its position in the city, and we have a responsibility to represent our people.
“The figures on child poverty are stark, and times are tough for a lot of families. Ultimately, being able to be involved in football is a privilege – but the last few years have shown us that it is not the same without a shared passion in the stands.
“A strong Plymouth is a strong Argyle, and we are excited to play our part with Project 35.”
Read about Project 35 in more detail by visiting the dedicated webpage here.
