26/10/2026
We are delighted to have welcomed four more fantastic local organisations to our hospitality box at Reading FC, giving their representatives, volunteers, and the people they support the opportunity to enjoy a memorable matchday experience at our local football team and allow us to catch up with the organisations to get up to date on their work, challenges, and plans.
Our latest guests were Reading Street Pastors, Age UK Reading, LifeSpring Church, and Sadaka - four organisations making such a meaningful difference to people and communities across Reading.
Reading Street Pastors joined us for the exciting 3-1 victory over Blackpool! Reading Street Pastors play a vital role in the community, with trained volunteers offering practical help, care, and support to people out in Reading’s streets, particularly during Friday and Saturday nights. It was a pleasure to welcome the team/volunteers and recognise the difference their dedication makes to keeping people feel safe and supported. Thank you also to Reading FC’s CEO, Joe Jacobson, for coming to meet our wonderful guests.
Age UK Reading enjoyed the 2-0 win against Notts County! The charity works to improve the lives of older people across Reading, helping them stay connected, independent, and supported. The visit was made even more special by a visit from Reading FC players Josh Knight and Liam Fraser, who took time to meet our guests and make the occasion extra memorable.
LifeSpring Church joined us for the entertaining 1-1 draw against Bradford City. LifeSpring Church delivers a variety of regular weekly activities aimed at improving wellbeing, reducing isolation, and strengthening community connections. Our guests were delighted to meet Reading FC midfielders George Earthy and Josh Stokes, adding a special highlight to their matchday experience.
Sadaka joined us for Reading’s 1-0 victory over Leyton Orient last week. Sadaka is dedicated to supporting those homeless and also people facing hardship within Reading, aiming to provide food, long-life consumables, and companionship. The visit was made even more memorable when Reading FC defender Benn Ward popped in to meet our guests.
John Sykes commented, “It’s an enormous privilege to welcome such a diverse range of organisations into our Reading FC hospitality box. Each of these groups make such an invaluable and impactful contribution to our local community, selflessly giving so much of their time and energy to support others.
“These matchday experiences are about much more than football. They are an opportunity to say thank you, recognise the incredible work taking place across Reading, and give the people behind these organisations the chance to relax, connect, and enjoy something special.
“Meeting the players is always a fantastic bonus, and we are hugely grateful to Reading Football Club for helping make these occasions so memorable. We look forward to welcoming even more local charities and community groups in the near future.”