This weekend sees the start of a new campaign as Spirit Of Shankly (SOS) and Everton Supporters Trust (EST) again join forces. This time though it’s not about what’s happening on the pitch. 

Following a plea for donations for local foodbanks before the recent derby, at the beginning of October, both supporters’ groups have now linked up with North Liverpool Foodbank and ABCC (Anfield Breckside Community Council) to organise weekly collections at every home game at Anfield and Goodison.

Drop-off points close to each ground will accept food donations, which will then be picked up after kick-off by the foodbanks, sorted into three-days’ supply and distributed to families and single people in crisis.

SOS and EST said in a joint statement: “We have tens of thousands of supporters coming to both grounds on a weekly basis, and are asking them to bring food to the specified drop-off points. We gain so much from the area and it is important we help local neighbourhoods by giving something tangible to those most in need.

“We are forming a unique partnership in football and putting rivalries aside to come together for the greater good of the region of Merseyside.”

Collection points at Anfield will be at Christ Church, opposite the ground, Twelfth Man, HJC Shop, Supporters Club, Our Lady Immaculate Club and the Oakfield. More points may be set up in the future. St Luke’s will be the drop-off at Goodison.

Supplies at the foodbanks are running low and organisers ask for dry products, such as rice, pasta, breakfast cereals, biscuits, long-life milk, fruit juice, tinned meat and fish, toiletries, and nappies.

“We really appreciate the way the community comes together to help stop local people going hungry, and hope to have their support for the future.”

The scheme is being supported by various faith groups, Unite in the Community, HJC and the Rockfield Road Residents Association. Any other community groups wishing to be involved in its development or for anyone interested in volunteering visit http://northliverpool.foodbank.org.uk/get-involved or contact vicky@standrewslive.org.uk.