The number of people supported by Wimbledon Foundation initiatives this year has risen 25% on last year.
The charity, which is the official charity of the tennis championships, has donated over £550,000 to organisations across Merton over the last 12 months.
One of the organisation’s initiatives, called Work at Wimbledon, saw 143 people employed at this year’s Tennis Championships.
Hassan Khan, Volunteer Services Manager at Merton Vision, said: “Hiring blind and partially sighted people to work at The Championships was truly exemplary. I have worked with hundreds of charities over the last 10 years, but the Wimbledon Foundation just stands out for me in their desire to empower, encourage and make a difference.”
Paige Murphy, Head of the Wimbledon Foundation, said: “We’re really proud of our work across the boroughs of Merton and Wandsworth, not only the increase in impact, but also the variety of our support across communities. It’s important to note that this is all done in partnership with local charities, so we’d like to thank them for their commitment to making a difference in our community and helping us to champion opportunity for all.”
Ulrika Hogberg, Head of Community Strategy at the All England Club, said: “Wimbledon is part of the local community, so it is important to us that we make a positive contribution throughout the year. By connecting people with the magic of Wimbledon first-hand, be that over the two weeks of The Championships or through our year-round activities, our hope is that everyone feels part of Wimbledon.”
