Wolverhampton youth group scores big with local McDonald’s franchisee sponsorship

Ash Raju and his restaurants have been supporting grassroots football in the local community as part of McDonald’s Fun Football programme for many years and McDonald’s is the longest-standing supporter of grassroots football in the UK, working with the Home Nation Football Associations for more than 20 years. The team at the Penn Road restaurant visited the centre to present the kit to the under 13’s Girls Football Team.

The Way Youth Zone has been in operation for almost a decade and is a dedicated youth centre in Wolverhampton, providing a safe and inspiring environment for young people in the community. The group offers a wide range of activities including sports, arts, music, and educational workshops as well as support services. Ash, who grew up in Wolverhampton, credits his childhood youth club as playing a significant role in his younger years. He has been an active mentor at The Way Youth Zone for the past few years and became a proud Trustee of its board in 2023.

Local McDonald’s Franchisee, Ash Raju, who owns and operates two restaurants in the area, said: “Youth football is important for our community which is why we support local teams through each restaurant, and I am delighted to help support The Way Youth Zone by providing the new kit and training equipment. Growing up in Wolverhampton, youth clubs played an important and positive role in my childhood, so I am very proud to be giving back by supporting The Youth Way Zone. I look forward to seeing the team enjoy playing their upcoming fixtures and following their progression throughout the season.”

Chief Executive of Wolverhampton Youth Zone (The Way), Paul Snape, said: “We are hugely grateful to McDonald’s for its sponsorship and supply of playing away kit for our team. The support from Ash and his wider McDonald’s team will allow us to continue to keep our membership and entry fees low and give access to youth football regardless of background and ability. We look forward to continuing our ongoing work with Ash and McDonald’s to provide a safe and fun environment for children interested in attending The Way Youth Zone.”

Now in its 24^th year, McDonald’s Fun Football programme is committed to providing more than ten million hours of free football opportunities to more than one million children by 2026. McDonald’s Fun Football sessions are taking place across the entire UK this summer. To find a Fun Football session local to you visit mcdonalds.co.uk/funfootball.

For further information on McDonald’s involvement in grassroots football follow @FunFootballUK on Twitter and Instagram.