The summer signing made his first visit to NUCASTLE – the Foundation’s base – where he was introduced to the wide-ranging programmes that are driving positive change across the region.
A tour of state-of-the-art facilities culminated in a hands-on volunteering session at the Community Pantry @ NUCASTLE, which helps to place food on the table for families facing financial challenges. Elanga took time to learn about the pantry’s role within the community, before rolling up his sleeves to assist the initiative by helping to serve customers.
The pantry is a collaborative project between Newcastle United Foundation and Newcastle Foodbank, providing affordable access to food and household essentials. The service operates as a low-cost social supermarket, easing the burden on residents with limited income streams.
In the past six months alone, more than 956 visits to the pantry have been made by individuals and families from an NE4 postcode, with Foundation staff and volunteers contributing over 200 hours to keep the service running.
Discussing his motivation for volunteering at the pantry, Elanga said: “My early days at the club have been amazing, I’m really enjoying being part of this city. I feel it’s also important to introduce yourself to the community and help others as much as you can.
“I heard that Newcastle Foodbanks recently recorded their busiest year which shows how important it is to support this type of project. Coming here and meeting people at the pantry has really melted my heart. As a footballer, it’s a reminder that there’s more to life than football.
“It’s also been special to see how near NUCASTLE is to St. James’ Park. It shows how closely the club is bound to its Foundation and the community. There’s a real sense that everyone here wants to be together. That makes me want to work harder and fight even more for this club and the city.”
Andy Foster, Managing Director of Newcastle United Foundation, said: “We were delighted to welcome Anthony to NUCASTLE and greatly appreciate his support of the pantry. What stood out most was Anthony’s enthusiasm to be here, not just as a footballer but as someone who genuinely cares about making a positive impact within his new community.
“The pantry is a vital resource for local residents facing financial pressures – supporting over 1800 people last season - and it continues to thrive thanks to the dedication of our staff and volunteers from Newcastle Foodbank. Anthony’s energy was infectious and witnessing his passion to learn about each individual’s role in the pantry gave everyone a positive boost.
“On behalf of Newcastle United Foundation and Newcastle Foodbank, we thank Anthony for thinking of us and stepping forward to make a real difference for families across the region.”
Community pantries are hosted by organisations across the North East and are accessible to individuals who meet the specified criteria set out by Your Local Pantry. For more information and to register attendance at a pantry, visit here.
For more information about the Foundation and programmes near you, follow Newcastle United Foundation on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and X for regular news and updates.
