THE HARVEY McWILLIAMS FOUNDATION

The Harvey McWilliams Foundation is a UK-registered charity (Charity number: 1202495) based in Darlington, County Durham, England. It was established in 2023 by Michael McWilliams and his family in loving memory of their son, Harvey McWilliams.

Harvey was an 18-year-old passionate footballer who played for Darlington FC’s academy, supported Sunderland AFC, studied Sports Science at the University of Exeter, and played for Exeter Royals FC. Tragically, he took his own life in December 2021. Harvey was known for his generous spirit - he often donated his own football boots, kit, and equipment to those in need - and believed strongly that “football is for everyone,” which became the foundation’s core motto.

The charity operates a “boot library” to make football more accessible. It gathers and distributes donated football equipment (such as boots, gloves, shin pads, socks, kits, and training gear) for free or on loan to disadvantaged children, young people, and community members who might otherwise be unable to afford them, especially amid cost-of-living challenges. This promotes community participation in healthy recreation, amateur sport, and physical activity.

It also raises awareness of mental health and wellbeing, highlighting the benefits of football for physical and emotional health, while signposting support services. The foundation has donated over 1000 pairs of boots throughout the north east. They have helped the students from Seaham High School acces football by providing 150 pairs of boots. Sunderland AFC have been very supportive by raising awareness by handing out leaflets & having a boot collection of some matchdays.

The foundation is located at 5 Whessoe Road, Darlington, DL3 0QP.

Website: https://theharveymcwilliamsfoundation.org.uk/

Social media:

•  Facebook: The Harvey McWilliams Foundation

•  Instagram: @hmcwilliamsfoundation

•  X/Twitter: @HMFoundation18 (or similar handles like @hmcwilliamsfoundation)

They run fundraising events like sponsored walks (e.g., annual “For Harvey Walk” challenges from Darlington FC to Exeter Royals FC or other routes), boot-cleaning days, auctions of signed memorabilia, and collaborations with local football clubs (including Darlington FC, where they’ve had matchday stands for donations). They’ve been featured in podcasts (e.g., “Over My Dead Poddy” and “Darlington Xtra”) discussing turning grief into positive community impact, and received recognition for their work.

If you’re interested in donating kit, volunteering, fundraising, or getting involved, check their website or social channels for the latest updates and contact info. They actively welcome community support to keep Harvey’s legacy alive.