Manchester FA have launched a new initiative, as a club shop, consisting of pre-loved items of kit and boots that will collected from donation points across the region and re-distributed to individuals and families. 

Manchester FA has partnered up with numerous organisations across Greater Manchester, to help those facing financial pressure remain in football. Greater Manchester is home to some of the highest concentrations of poverty and deprivation in the country. There are 620,000 people, out of a population of 2.8m, living below the poverty line in our city region.

Bits and Boots hopes to alleviate some of the pressures of the cost of living crisis and ensure people can continue to remain active in sport and improve the retention levels of people taking part in physical activity across Manchester.

Manchester FA will also be running a pop-up shop throughout the season where people can come down and donate or buy kit from us. Keep your eyes on our socials for more news and information on this!

"Lots of us have unwanted and sometime used football kit/boots in our wardrobes and don’t know what to do with them, especially with children who grow out of kit and boots so quickly. We want to create a new initiative that helps those, who need it the most during this cost of living crisis; as well as helping reduce carbon footprint by recycling unwanted clothing"

‘We are committed in helping those who need it whilst also aiding environment. By charging a nominal fee for kit we will hope to keep the project sustainable for the long term’’

Manchester FA’s staff Aimee Cook and Georgie Oliver

Kit/boots will be available online and at our pop shop within the season. Initially we will be look for those who have purchased the items to collect from Manchester FA HQ, reducing packaging, again having a positive impact on the environment.

If you need access to kit and boots, would like to refer someone or if you wish to get involved, please contact us at support@manchesterfa.com with subject Bits & Boots.

Initial donation points include:

National Squash Centre, M11 3FF
Tennis and Football Centre, M11 3DU
Belle Vue Leisure Centre, M12 4TF
Reddish North End, SK5 6JW
Whalley Range Leisure Centre, M16 8GW
Rushford Park, M19 2AH
Denmark Road Sports Centre, M15 6FG
Salford City Academy, M31 4BU
Ordsall Leisure Centre, M5 3DJ
Salford Sports Village, M7 3NQ
Failsworth Sports Campus, M35 9HA