THE HARVEY McWILLIAMS FOUNDATION

The Harvey McWilliams Foundation is a UK-registered charity (No. 1202495) based in Darlington, England. It was established in 2023 by Michael McWilliams and his family in loving memory of his 18-year-old son, Harvey McWilliams, a passionate footballer who played for Darlington FC’s academy, supported Sunderland AFC (SAFC), a student at the University of Exeter whilst playing football for Exeter Royals FC Tragically, Harvey took his own life in December 2021.

Harvey was known for his generous spirit—he often donated his own football boots, shin pads, and kit to those in need—and firmly believed that “football is for everyone”. This belief forms the core motto of the foundation.

Main Activities and Goals:

The charity focuses on two key areas...

• Making football accessible by providing free or loaned football equipment (such as boots, shin pads, socks, gloves, training strips, and other kit) to disadvantaged children and young people whose families might otherwise struggle to afford them, especially amid the cost-of-living challenges.

• Raising awareness of mental health and wellbeing, including signposting to support services, while promoting the physical and emotional benefits of playing football.

The foundation operates from: 5 Whessoe Road, Darlington, DL3 0PQ, and has been recognised for its community impact - including receiving recognition from Prime Minister Keir Starmer in 2025 for turning personal tragedy into positive change.

Fundraising and Events:

To support their work, the foundation organises events like...

• Annual sponsored walks (e.g., from Sunderland’s Stadium of Light to Darlington’s Blackwell Meadows, or longer challenges like Darlington to Exeter).

• Boot-cleaning days (e.g., events where hundreds of pairs of boots are cleaned and prepared for distribution).

• Fundraising auctions and sponsorships (including collaborations with local clubs and businesses).

These efforts help raise funds, spread mental health awareness, and keep Harvey’s legacy alive by ensuring more young people can enjoy the sport he loved.

You can find out more or get in touch via their Facebook page (The Harvey McWilliams Foundation), Instagram or Twitter/X (@HMFoundation18). If you’re interested in donating kit, volunteering, or supporting, we welcome community involvement.